Manchester United are set to sign Juventus scouting manager Javier Ribalta for the upcoming season as they are looking to strengthen their ranks.
Ribalta has been one of the key figures at Turin as he helped them seal some of the key deals in the recent years. He had worked with Juve for five years and was credited for managing to bring in the likes of Paul Pogba, Paulo Dybala, Alex Sandro and Dani Alves in the recent seasons.
The 36-year old had previously worked with Manchester United’s rivals Liverpool during the reign of Rafa Benitez before moving to Juventus. He had also helped the Italian giants swoop for Real Madrid striker Alvaro Morata and could play a massive role in helping Red Devils land their key target this summer.
Javier will now start working with chief scouts Jim Lawlor and Marcel Bout at Old Trafford. The Red Devils are yet to make key signings despite wrapping up a deal for Victor Lindelof from Benfica earlier this month.
Pablo Longoria, who has worked with Ribalta during his time at Juventus, said: ‘He has understood the Italian philosophy and adapts to the types of players required at each club.’
A statement released by Juventus on Friday read: ‘Juventus Football Club announces that, after five years of successful cooperation, the Scouting Manager Javier Ribalta will leave the club to pursue a new professional adventure.
‘In thanking him for the professionalism demonstrated in recent years, Juventus Football Club wishes Javier every success in the continuation of his career.’
Ribalta, who left the Italian club, told the Juventus’ official website: ‘It has been a wonderful few years here.
‘My thanks go to all involved with the club, particularly Giuseppe Marotta and Fabio Paratici for the faith they have shown in me since day one.
‘I will look back on my time at Juventus with great pleasure.’
Ribalta will be a huge addition to Manchester United’s backroom staff and the club have made an excellent step which could prove to be big in the upcoming years. He comes with a big CV and will be helping both Jose Mourinho and Ed Woodward in procuring the best talents around the globe.