Manchester United legends Edwin van der Sar and Robin van Persie could seal a return to Old Trafford as members of Erik ten Hag's backroom staff if the Dutchman is handed the managerial reins, according to journalist Dean Jones.

Ralf Rangnick's interim spell in charge will come to an end when the season reaches its climax and it appears ten Hag is destined to be installed as his long-term successor.

What is the latest news involving ten Hag, van der Sar and van Persie?

According to The Athletic, Manchester United have reached an agreement in principle with ten Hag to become their next boss.

The report suggests the current Ajax chief is expected to pen a four-year contract at Old Trafford and his coaching staff will be finalised in due course.

Former Red Devils frontman van Persie, who is in a backroom role at Feyenoord, is reportedly being lined up as an assistant for ten Hag.

Another Manchester United favourite, van der Sar, is currently working with ten Hag as he is the chief executive at Ajax.

It is understood that van der Sar played a key role in his ex-employers being able to hold talks with his fellow Dutchman ahead of the end of the season.

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What has Dean Jones said about the situation?

Jones believes a return to Old Trafford could be on the cards for van der Sar and van Persie.

The transfer insider feels the duo could help to rebuild a strong relationship between the fanbase and those on the pitch.

Jones told GIVEMESPORT: "It definitely becomes an option and has to be discussed.

"I think that's something that's been missing under Rangnick. Under Solskjaer, there was an incredible bond between the team, the manager and the fans inside the stadium. That's gone completely now because there is no emotional pull for Rangnick.

"Obviously, the fans are more excited about ten Hag than they ever have been about Rangnick, but they still don't know him as a man, as a character or as a football person.

"Having someone alongside him who's got a United link would definitely help."

How did van der Sar and van Persie perform at Man United?

Van der Sar made 266 appearances after becoming the first signing of the Glazer era at Manchester United.

During his time at Old Trafford, the 51-year-old won four Premier League and Community Shield titles, two Carabao Cups, the Champions League and Club World Cup.

Although van Persie was in the red half of Manchester for less time, having made the £24million switch from Arsenal, he still made a telling impact.

The former striker scored 58 goals and registered a further 21 assists in 105 outings, with his prolific form allowing him to get his hands on the Premier League trophy and Community Shield.