Phelan has been working as Solskjaer’s assistant since the Norwegian was appointed in December

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer wants Manchester United to appoint Mike Phelan as the club’s first technical director.

Phelan, 56, has been the assistant manager to Solskjaer since the Norwegian returned to the club in December after the sacking of José Mourinho.

Solskjaer’s role as manager was made permanent in March, but Phelan is yet to extend his contract with the club. The Times understands that Phelan wants a broader role at United and would be interested in becoming technical director. It is also understood that Phelan has Solskjaer’s backing for the position.

Solskjaer wants Phelan to get the job because the two have a good working relationship and the United manager thinks that his assistant understands which areas of the squad need strengthening, and the club’s