Michael Edwards could be set for an immediate return to football scouting when he leaves his role as sporting director at Liverpool at the end of the season.
The 42-year-old first joined the Reds in November 2011 and has played a key role in the club's successful recruitment in recent seasons. However, Edwards has confirmed he will depart Liverpool when his contract runs out this summer as he gets set to embark on a new challenge.
According to French outlet Nice Matin, Ligue 1 side Nice are looking to replace outgoing sporting director Julien Fournier with Edwards. Sir Jim Ratcliffe would reportedly like to bring Edwards to the club as they look to push towards the top of the table within the next couple of seasons.
Edwards is believed to meet the criteria of Nice owner Ratcliffe, who has himself been linked with buying Chelsea in the summer. It is expected that Fournier will depart the Riviera club due to his poor relationship with manager Cristophe Galtier, leaving a role for Nice to fill.
Nice finished fifth in Ligue 1 this season and have ambitions to challenge for a Champions League place next season. They are expected to strengthen in the summer and Edwards could bring the knowledge they need to recruit well and sign the players they need to compete at the highest level.
During his time at Liverpool, Edwards has been integral to signing the likes of Mohamed Salah, Sadio Mane, Virgil van Djik and Andrew Robertson. He also oversaw the arrivals of Thiago and Fabinho, who are mainstays in Jurgen Klopp's midfield.
Who is Michael Edwards' best signing at Liverpool? Let us know in the comments below!
The Reds have won multiple trophies in recent seasons, including the Champions League, the Premier League, the FA Cup and the Carabao Cup. When announcing he was going to leave Liverpool last November, Edwards said: "Ten years - that's a pretty long time in anyone's working life.
"In football terms it is an era in itself, particularly at a club like Liverpool where the expectations and standards are never anything other than as high as the supporters deserve.
"To be part of this club during this period has been a privilege due to the people I have been fortunate enough to work with and the success we have enjoyed. But all good things must come to an end and, in my case, I recently completed my final summer window as Liverpool sporting director.
"Even writing those words seems a bit surreal, but at the end of this season I will pack up my laptop and leave my office at the AXA Training Centre for the last time."
