Manchester United have reached an agreement in principle with Lokomotiv Moscow over Ralf Rangnick’s extraction from the Russian club, according to reports.
The 63-year-old German, dubbed as ‘the godfather of Gegenpressing’, has been heavily linked with a move to Manchester United in the last couple of days and the appointment is now edging closer.
Prior to Thursday night’s Europa League fixtures, Lokomotiv Moscow chairman remained coy on rumours over Rangnick’s future, insisting ‘things will be good’.
According to Sky Sports, an agreement has now been struck between Manchester United and Lokomotiv Moscow over the German’s extraction.
As per the report, contracts are expected to be signed this weekend as Rangnick looks set to take charge of the side until the end of the season on an interim basis. He will then move upstairs to feature in a consultancy role.
Ed Woodward, Manchester United’s outgoing executive vice-chairman, is said to have pushed for Rangnick’s involvement at board level, owing to his expertise in the area. Furthermore, the Old Trafford club is said to strongly believe that Rangnick will offer ‘valuable insight’ beyond this season.
Journalist and transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano confirmed the news on social media, insisting contracts will most likely be signed late this weekend.
Agreement in place between Manchester United and Lokomotiv Moscow for Ralf Rangnick. Deal will most likely be signed late this weekend. 🔴🇩🇪 #MUFC
Ralf Rangnick already has an agreement to join as interim manager and then with ‘consultancy’ role starting from June 2022. pic.twitter.com/KlwokAGm5P
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) November 26, 2021
Read more: Ralf Rangnick set to play leading role in choosing next permanent Man Utd manager
SN’s verdict on the appointment of Rangnick…
Overall, this is an appointment that makes perfect sense for Manchester United on and off the pitch. Despite focusing on off-the-pitch matters in recent years, Rangnick is no stranger to the ins and outs of being a football manager.
His impact on modern football is echoed by several top managers, with Julian Nagelsmann and Jurgen Klopp both reacting to his impending move to the Premier League.
Nagelsmann confirmed that he had been in touch with his German compatriot, whilst Klopp admitted that his arrival at United is ‘not good news’ for other teams.
On top of his excellent pedigree as a coach, Rangnick offers United the opportunity to develop their own staff. Ole Gunnar Solskjaer had a young coaching staff behind him and with Rangnick at the helm, all of them will be able to tap into his knowledge and experience.
He will also have a big say into what goes on at the club after his interim stint and will add direction to a club severely lacking it for the best part of a decade.
