Former Manchester United keeper and current Ajax chief executive Edwin Van Der Sar has played down talk of a return to Old Trafford as sporting director.
The former United goalkeeper, who is now the chief executive at the Dutch club, is reportedly the prime target as the Old Trafford outfit continue their long search to fill the crucial off-field post.
United are thought to want to bring in a footballing figure to oversee their transfer policy.
Van Der Sar, 48, has played a key role in Ajax's resurgence in recent years, which included reaching the Champions League semi-finals last season.
But the Dutchman did not fuel speculation linking him with United when speaking to reporters after playing in former Manchester City captain Vincent Kompany's testimonial at the Etihad Stadium on Wednesday.
Van Der Sar, who played for United from 2005-11, said: "I am enjoying my time at Ajax. I've got a different role - chief executive.
"I am really looking forward to bringing Ajax back to the European top level - that we probably touched last year - and to make sure we get the best opportunity to stay there."
Follow Sporting Life on social media - find us on Facebook here or tweet @SportingLifeFC
Related football links
- Watch: Premier League highlights
- Back to school: Championship grades
- Alex Keble: England continue steady evolution
- Harry who? Meet Leicester's new star
- Van Dijk to be world's best?
- Star man for surprising Swans
- QUIZ: Test your football knowledge
- Fantasy Football: Pick your team now!
- Football results
