Manchester United have made an approach for West Bromwich Albion's head of academy recruitment, Steve Hopcroft, sources close to both clubs have told ESPN FC.
United are revamping of the club's youth structure and have targeted a move for highly rated talent spotter Hopcroft.
Former United midfielder Nicky Butt is now head of coaching at the academy after replacing Brian McClair, who left last year to take a job with the Scottish FA after advice from Sir Alex Ferguson.
United feel they have slip behind their neighbours Manchester City in the recruitment and development of the best young players in the country.
They have targeted Hopcroft to help them unearth the most talented youngsters, with United enjoying a reputation for developing young stars and offering them opportunities in the first team. Former Sheffield United academy manager Nick Cox joined towards the end of last season.
Hopcroft helped bring through the likes of Saido Berahino, Isaiah Brown, Jerome Sinclair at Jonathan Leko at West Brom.
The Baggies are reluctant to lose Hopcroft to a Premier League rival and they could make a counter offer to try and persuade him to stay at The Hawthorns.