Tom Keane, who worked with Manchester United in the summer as the head of the club’s football negotiations, had a huge role to play in the signings of both Anthony and Casemiro. His position was a temporary one, but it was largely expected that he would return to the role on a permanent basis.
However, David Ornstein has reported that he will not be returning to his previous role, stating that: “Keane has returned to Brandsmiths, where he specialises in the legal side of sporting contracts.”
Ornstein also explained that the uncertainty surrounding the owners of the club was a factor in the decision as some appointments were “on hold while the Glazer family go through a sale process.”
Tom Keane Will Not Return to Manchester United Negotiator Role
🚨 Tom Keane has left interim role as head of football negotiations at Man Utd. Keane came close to joining on permanent basis but has returned to law firm Brandsmiths + not involved in Jan window. #MUFC intend to fill position before summer@TheAthleticFC https://t.co/aSnuYBWwx6
— David Ornstein (@David_Ornstein) January 23, 2023
Summer Signings
As mentioned, Keane played a huge role in United’s summer transfer business, and in large, it was a very successful window for the club.
Casemiro and Anthony were the two marquee signings, but there were plenty of other smart acquisitions. The Red Devils beat rivals Arsenal to Lisandro Martinez’s signature, whilst also bringing in Tyrell Malacia, Christian Eriksen and Martin Dubravka. The majority of those players have been very impressive this season.
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Tom Keane, who helped the club during the last summer transfer window as head of negotiations, was supposed to get the job on a permanent basis but returned to his law firm Brandsmiths due to uncertainty around the Glazer. [ @David_Ornstein ] #MUFC pic.twitter.com/IKXyl1qWZw
— Manchester United News (@MUFCfaithfuls) January 23, 2023
Overpaying
However, a recurring theme among those signings was a huge price tag. In particular, the Anthony deal stands out in this regard.
The Brazilian was signed for a reported fee of approximately £86 million, and so far, has somewhat failed to live up to that valuation. having scored just three Premier League goals this campaign.
There was also growing frustration among fans that the club failed to move on certain players, and whilst many of the signings have done well, the Manchester United faithful did not take to Keane all that well during his time in the role.
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For that reason, this outcome is probably best for all parties considered, especially with a potential ownership change on the horizon at the club.
