Manchester United consulted an advisory group featuring Nemanja Vidic and other club legends on potential transfers last summer, according to a new report.
Erik ten Hag completed some big moves in his first window as United boss, bringing in Lisandro Martinez and Antony from former club Ajax.
He then managed to secure the signature of midfielder Casemiro from Real Madrid towards the end of the window, which took the club's summer spending over the £200 million mark.
That meant the budget for the winter was low, with the club restricted to loan deals, but there is no doubt that Martinez and Casemiro, in particular, have had successful impacts in their first campaign.
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And a new report claims that former United centre-back Vidic, who played for the club between 2006 and 2014, and other club icons advised on the signing of the duo.
Man Utd advisors worked on summer transfers
According to The Athletic, chief executive Richard Arnold called on Vidic to be part of a 'brainstorming group' to discuss United's short and long-term plans.
It is claimed that Arnold asked Sir Alex Ferguson and former club chief David Gill to complete a review on United's management structure following the news that Ed Woodward was set to depart his role.
One of the ideas was the brainstorming group, and as well as Ferguson and Gill, club legends Bryan Robson and Denis Irwin were also part of the meetings.
The report adds that both Casemiro and Martinez were discussed by the group before United launched their moves, with Ferguson giving his thoughts.
The inclusion of Vidic - and subsequent signing of Martinez, United's top centre-back - certainly stands out, with the Serbian winning 15 trophies during his time at Old Trafford.
If Martinez can win anything close to that amount during his time at the club, it will certainly prove to be a successful transfer for all involved.
Topics: Manchester United, Premier League, Nemanja Vidic, Transfers, Casemiro, Lisandro Martinez, Erik Ten Hag, Sir Alex Ferguson
Ryan Smart