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Director of recruitment Christopher Vivell is starting to make his presence felt at Manchester United.
The former Chelsea and RB Leipzig executive signed a short-term deal at United in the summer of 2024 before being offered the role on a full-time basis early this year.
Technical director Jason Wilcox remains the most influential figure at Old Trafford when it comes to shaping Ruben Amorim’s squad. However, it was Vivell who drove United’s expensive pursuit of Benjamin Sesko over the summer. Now, United are considering signing two more Bundesliga stars.
Recently, The Peoples Person relayed a report claiming United have held talks with agent Jorge Mendes to explore the possibility of signing Karim Adeyemi.
Manchester United willing to spend big on Adeyemi
According to Fichajes, United are prepared to spend €60 million to sign Adeyemi from Borussia Dortmund.
United are thought to be “closely monitoring” the German forward’s situation, as his relationship with head coach Niko Kovac is starting to turn sour.
Known for his incredible pace, the 23-year-old has been involved in six goals in 14 appearances across all competitions this term. However, he hasn’t scored since late September.
Dortmund intend to renew his contract, which is currently due to expire in 2027. United’s interest, however, may complicate the German outfit’s plans.
Vivell shares a connection with Adeyemi
United play a very direct brand of football under Amorim, and figures at Old Trafford reportedly believe that Adeyemi’s pace would further speed up attacking transitions.
Vivell is well aware of Adeyemi’s potential, as he convinced RB Salzburg to spend around €10m to acquire the ex-Bayern Munich youngster from German club SpVgg Unterhaching in 2018.
Christopher Vivell’s top five signings
| Player | Signed for | Signed from | Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Erling Haaland | RB Salzburg | Molde | 2019 |
| Dayot Upamecano | RB Salzburg | Liefering | 2016 |
| Benjamin Sesko | RB Salzburg | Domžale | 2019 |
| Karim Adeyemi | RB Salzburg | SpVgg Unterhaching | 2018 |
| Mohamed Simakan | RB Leipzig | Strasbourg | 2021 |
Salzburg sold Adeyemi to Dortmund in 2022 after a prolific stint in Austria.
It has been widely reported that United are keen on signing German midfielder Angelo Stiller from VfB Stuttgart as well.
Feature image Pau Barrena via Getty Images
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