According to The Sun, former Manchester United player and coach Nicky Butt is in line to join Derby County after recently departing the Premier League giants.

Butt made over 400 appearances for United and re-joined the club as a coach.

The former midfielder was head of first-team development, and oversaw the progress of players such as Mason Greenwood, Scott McTominay and Marcus Rashford.

Manchester United v Newcastle United - Premier League
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The trio have since become regulars in United’s first-team, with Rashford in particular becoming a global star reportedly worth in the region of £130 million (Daily Mail).

But the recent appointment of John Murtough as director has seen Butt depart Old Trafford.

The Sun claim the two didn’t see eye-to-eye, and Butt’s departure could see him link up with former United leading goal scorer Wayne Rooney at Derby County

Rooney became Derby’s permanent manager back in January and he has been tasked with preserving the club’s Championship status as they sit just five points above the drop zone.

The Rams have brought through several young stars over the past 18 months, with Jason Knight, Max Bird, Lee Buchanan and Louie Sibley now regulars in the first team.

But there is a potential vacancy following Gary Bowyer’s move to Salford City.

Bradford City v Wigan Athletic - Pre-Season Friendly
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Bowyer was in charge of the U23s working alongside Pat Lyons, but he has joined the League Two side ironically part-owner by Nicky Butt as one of the Project 92 members.

His success at United would make him a standout candidate, while Rooney may be keen to bring in his own staff as he looks to build a successful future at Pride Park.

Also see: Report: Derby coach tipped to become new League Two manager

Also see: ‘Best player’: Some Swansea fans react to Whittaker’s full league debut since Derby switch

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