Joe Aribo's Southampton 'reluctantly' let director of football Jason Wilcox join Manchester United

Championship side Southampton has reluctantly agreed to allow Director of Football Jason Wilcox to join Manchester United, the club has confirmed.

Pulse Sports Nigeria reports that Joe Aribo’s Saints reached an "acceptable compensation fee" with the Red Devils, bringing an end to Wilcox's nine-month spell at St Mary's.

In a statement on the club's website, Southampton expressed their disappointment at the departure, but wished Wilcox well for the future.

"SaintsFC has reluctantly agreed to allow Director of Football Jason Wilcox to join Manchester United, having reached agreement on an acceptable compensation fee," the statement read.

"Whilst the club is naturally disappointed that Jason's stay at Southampton has only lasted nine months, it wishes him well for the future."

Wilcox, who previously served as Academy Director at Manchester City, will now take up the role of Technical Director at Old Trafford.

Manchester United have hailed the appointment, highlighting Wilcox's experience and track record of success.

"Jason Wilcox has joined Manchester United as Technical Director with immediate effect," a United statement said.

"He will work with all technical areas of the football department to achieve the highest standards of performance."

The 53-year-old, who won the Premier League title with Blackburn Rovers as a player in 1995, will be tasked with overseeing all aspects of the club's technical operations.

His arrival comes as a major coup for the Red Devils, who will be hoping Wilcox can help them return to the top of the English game under ambitious new owners INEOS.