Ajax chief executive Edwin van der Sar has raised the prospect of joining Manchester United as the club’s technical director, but the former goalkeeper has emphasised that he may need more time before accepting a role at Old Trafford.

The ex-United star has previously dismissed the possibility of taking up a position at his former club but speaking recently, van der Sar made it known he is open to a return when he is ready:

“I need to learn a little more here [at Ajax], develop myself further and of course eventually let’s see what the future brings. United is a fantastic club, there’s a great following all over the world. Everybody wants to play for them and eventually, work for them.”

Van der Sar has been CEO at Ajax since November 2016 but he is not a sporting director. However, his knowledge of United and his experience of the administrative side of football would make him a strong candidate.

Whether the Red Devils are actually actively looking for a Director of Football, it seems questionable, with chief executive Ed Woodward having told shareholders last month that he is happy with the structure currently in place at the club.