Manchester United have reportedly entered into talks with former Tottenham star Tom Huddlestone as they look to bring him in in a hybrid role.
Huddlestone has been without a club since leaving Hull City at the end of last season, having returned to the Tigers following a three-year spell at Derby County. The Englishman is coming to the end of his career, having made his senior debut back in 2005.
That experience is something that United are now hoping they can utilise as they continue a restructure behind the scenes. The coaching staff in their academy has undergone a substantial overhaul, with changes throughout the age groups.
One of the changes has seen Paul McShane step up into a Professional Development Phase coaching role. He had been an overage player in United's Under-23s group, but retired from that role at the end of last season.
To replace the former defender's experience, the Daily Telegraph claim that United are targeting a move for Huddlestone. The Red Devils are said to have entered into talks with the 35-year-old over a potential deal.
He will take on the same role that McShane had last season, featuring as one of five over-age players in the Premier League 2 competition. The move suits both parties, with Huddlestone having been searching for his first coaching opportunity after leaving Hull.
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The offer from United is said to be 'ideal' for the former England international, who will lend his experience to their future stars. The success of McShane in his role over the past year has convinced United to find a replacement following the Irishman's retirement.
While United have been looking for midfield reinforcements this summer, Huddlestone will not feature in Erik ten Hag's first-team. Earlier this summer, head of academy Nick Cox had insisted that the changes United are making will allow them to improve at that level.
“We are really pleased to confirm the new coaching structure for the Professional Development Phase. The increase in flexibility reflects our bespoke approach to player development, focusing on supporting individuals to reach their potential by working with each specialist coach at the optimal time," he said in June.
“Paul played a pivotal role in the Academy’s success last season, in which four graduates made their debuts and the Under-18s won the Youth Cup. [He posseses] an outstanding set of complementary skills that will best support this group of players.
“I am proud of the world-class learning environment that we have created for our staff and take great satisfaction in seeing them progress both within the club or through external opportunities.
“The changes implement an ideal blend of long-standing club personnel and outstanding external appointments as we continue to appoint best-in-class staff throughout our world-leading youth development system.”
