Birmingham City Pursues Former Manchester United Executive John Murtough for Sporting Director Role

Birmingham City is actively seeking to appoint former Manchester United transfer executive John Murtough as their new sporting director. However, the club is encountering difficulties in reaching a compensation agreement with Atalanta, Murtough's current employer.

Murtough previously served as Manchester United's director of football for three years before departing in April 2024, shortly after Sir Jim Ratcliffe assumed control of the club. His tenure at Old Trafford also included roles as academy manager and director of development.

During Murtough's time as director of football, Manchester United saw the return of Cristiano Ronaldo and made significant transfer signings such as Rasmus Hojlund, Jadon Sancho, and Antony, none of whom ultimately made a lasting impact and have since departed. He was also in his position when Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was sacked in November 2021 and Erik ten Hag was appointed the following summer.

Murtough is currently the director of global development for Atalanta, an Italian club. Birmingham City aims to secure his services and must negotiate a compensation package with the Serie A side.

Birmingham City, under its American ownership group which includes NFL legend Tom Brady, has ambitious plans to elevate the club to the elite level of English football. These aspirations include a proposed £2 billion redevelopment project centered around a new 62,000-seat stadium.

The club invested heavily in the summer of 2025 with the goal of immediate promotion to the Premier League, but this objective was not met. Currently, Birmingham City sits 10th in the Championship standings under manager Chris Davies, having secured two wins and five draws in their first eight matches. Their next fixture is against rivals West Bromwich Albion on October 10.