Manchester United set to appoint Jean-Claude Blanc as new CEO after Richard Arnold departure
Jean-Claude Blanc is the leading contender to become Manchester United's new chief executive, talkSPORT understands.
The Premier League giants announced on Wednesday that Richard Arnold will be leaving his post as CEO.
He spent 16 years in total at United and replaced Ed Woodward in the position in February 2022.
talkSPORT understands that INEOS chief Sir Jim Ratcliffe, who looks set to purchase a 25 per cent stake in the club, made the decision.
Patrick Stewart will become United's interim CEO, with Arnold set to leave Old Trafford by the end of December.
As a result, United will now be looking for his replacement and Blanc has emerged as a potential candidate for the job.
He has worked for both Paris Saint-Germain and Juventus and is employed by INEOS to oversee their sporting portfolio.
Blanc is one of Europe's most experienced sports marketing executives, holding such a role during his time at PSG.
The 60-year-old was also the Chairman at Juventus from October 2009 until May the following year.
Ratcliffe is closing in on his 25 per cent acquisition of United and the British billionaire, who is a fan of the club himself, wants to eventually take full control from the Glazers.
United's current owners announced last November that they were 'exploring strategic alternatives.'
Ratcliffe and Sheikh Jassim bin Al Thani were the two leading parties for a potential takeover at Old Trafford.
However, the Glazers had always been reluctant to allow a full sale of the club and Sheikh Jassim pulled out of the race.
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