Manchester United’s recruitment department has undergone significant changes since INEOS took control of the club’s football operations.

The new ownership wanted a more structured approach to transfers, with greater emphasis on identifying young players who could develop into long-term assets.

Christopher Vivell was brought to Old Trafford in 2024 as director of recruitment, having built his reputation across several clubs in the Red Bull network.

His experience includes working with some of Europe’s most promising talents before they became established names at the highest level.

Christopher Vivell has also played a role in United’s recent transfer planning, including the club’s pursuit of Benjamin Sesko, whom he had previously worked with at both Salzburg and Leipzig.

However, the recruitment chief now finds himself operating in an increasingly unsettled environment, with disagreements reportedly emerging among senior figures over the club’s direction.

Bayern Munich consider Christopher Vivell appointment

Bayern Munich are now considering Vivell as a potential replacement for departing scouting chief Nils Schmadtke, according to BILD.

Bayern confirmed that Schmadtke will leave on 31 January 2027 after both parties agreed to terminate his contract early following discussions.

He joined the German champions in October 2024 and was considered a close associate of sporting director Max Eberl.

Vivell has emerged as a possible candidate, with his previous relationship with Bayern sporting director Christoph Freund understood to be a factor.

The pair worked together at Red Bull Salzburg between 2015 and 2020 and are reportedly still on good terms.

Vivell’s recruitment reputation was shaped during his time in Austria, where he worked as Salzburg’s head of scouting before becoming sports coordinator.

He was involved in the club’s recruitment during the arrivals of Erling Haaland, Dominik Szoboszlai, Benjamin Sesko, Patson Daka and Karim Adeyemi.

He subsequently moved to RB Leipzig, where he held technical director responsibilities, before joining Chelsea as technical director in December 2022.

His time at Stamford Bridge lasted only seven months.

His future at United is also attracting attention because of the uncertainty surrounding Michael Carrick.

Reports have suggested that Vivell favours Julian Nagelsmann as a potential replacement should United decide to dismiss the current head coach.

The two previously worked together at RB Leipzig, while Nagelsmann’s availability has reportedly made him an option for the club.

However, director of football Jason Wilcox is said to favour a different direction, with Eddie Howe among the names discussed.

Carrick’s position has come under pressure following a poor run of results, while the apparent differences between key decision-makers raise further concerns about whether the club has a united plan.

Bayern’s interest in Vivell could become another important development for INEOS as it attempts to stabilise its football operation at Old Trafford.