Jean-Claude Blanc was crucial for Man United summer transfer after holding “face-to-face talks”

Jean-Claude Blanc was crucial for one Manchester United summer transfer after he held “face-to-face talks” for a signing.

Jean-Claude Blanc is the CEO of INEOS Sport and sits on the Board of Directors at Manchester United following Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s investment in the Old Trafford outfit.

He has been part of the reshuffle at United over the last six months, which has overhauled the hierarchy. Dan Ashworth, Omar Berrada, and Jason Wilcox are among those who have joined in key roles.

Blanc was initially rumoured to become the club’s CEO before an agreement with Manchester City for Berrada was made.

Instead, the Frenchman holds a broader role but has still contributed to the club on the ground level, including in the transfer market.

Jean-Claude Blanc’s role in Ugarte transfer

In a detailed article from The Athletic, which looks at the new behind-the-scenes structure at Old Trafford, it was explained that Blanc is slightly removed from the day to day action at Carrington.

However, the French executive does engage at a macro level with the club and played a part during the summer window.

The report explained that Blanc held face-to-face talks with Nasser Al-Khelaifi, president of Paris Saint-Germain, over the potential signing of Manuel Ugarte.

There were clear issues over the value of the midfielder, with PSG attempting to hold out for a higher upfront fee from United.

Blanc met with Al-Khelaifi, who he worked alongside in France for 11 years, in Monaco ahead of the Champions League draw there on August 29.

It was detailed that the pair have a strong relationship, and the payment terms for the eventual transfer were agreed between them. Ugarte moved to United for an initial fee of £42 million, which could rise to around £50 million with add-ons.

Blanc appointed on UEFA board

Meanwhile, Blanc has also been appointed to the boards of the European Club Association (ECA) and UEFA’s Club Competition (UCC) Board of Administration.

The decision was confirmed at an ECA Board meeting in Dublin earlier this month. The aforementioned report adds that the United chief is viewed as the club’s powerbroker in the corridors of the continental game.

Speaking on his appointment, Blanc, said: “It is an honour to join these important boards and contribute to the effective governance of European club football and its competitions.

“These appointments demonstrate our commitment to playing a positive role within both UEFA and the ECA and further strengthen the relationships Manchester United enjoys across the European game.”

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