Manchester United CEO Omar Berrada has launched an investigation into information leaks at the club, warning staff they could face dismissal for sharing confidential details.
The probe comes as United implements major cost-cutting measures under Sir Jim Ratcliffe's part-ownership.
In a 580-word email to staff, Berrada made clear that revealing club information to outside sources would be treated as 'gross misconduct', a dismissible offence under UK employment law.
The club has been concerned about sensitive information appearing in the public domain ahead of official announcements.
Manchester United CEO Omar Berrada has launched an investigation into information leaks at the club, warning staff they could face dismissal for sharing confidential details
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According to The Telegraph, staff were told that 'additional measures' would be implemented to prevent information leaking before official club announcements.
'Anyone disclosing information outside of the club is breaching their obligations of confidentiality,' Berrada's email stated.
The CEO urged staff to report any external approaches, noting that 'journalists are extremely well-versed in gathering information from multiple sources.'
He specifically highlighted WhatsApp, phone and social media as potential channels journalists might use to gather information.
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Sir Jim Ratcliffe has been cutting costs at Manchester United since buying a minority stake
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The email also acknowledged the challenging circumstances many staff members face amid the ongoing cutbacks.
Ratcliffe is planning to make more than 100 staff redundant, following previous cuts of around 250 employees last year.
The club has already implemented various cost-saving measures, including the cancellation of free coach travel for staff to last year's FA Cup final.
Other financial restrictions have included reducing ambassadorial salaries and increasing ticket prices.
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Sir Alex Ferguson's £2million-a-year role with the club was also terminated as part of the cost-cutting drive.
United are set to hold a meeting on Monday to discuss further plans for reducing costs and increasing revenues.
The scale of the restructuring becomes clear when comparing United's staffing levels to other Premier League clubs.
Before Ratcliffe's investment, United employed 1,112 staff, significantly higher than their rivals, with Manchester City operating with just 520 employees during the same period.
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The changes are part of an ongoing Ineos review into club operations.
The restructuring aims to free up funds for Ruben Amorim to strengthen the first team, following recent costly decisions including a £14.5million payout for the departures of Erik ten Hag and Dan Ashworth.
Despite record revenues, United have lost £300m over the past three years.
The club faces significant infrastructure challenges, including decisions about either moving to a new 100,000-capacity stadium or undertaking major refurbishment of Old Trafford.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe has sparked anger from Manchester United staff during his time at the club
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Ratcliffe has invested around £241m, which is helping develop the Carrington training facility, but substantial funding is still needed for stadium improvements.
All business areas are being scrutinised for potential savings, with the aim of creating a leaner operation.
The club must also ensure compliance with the Premier League's profit and sustainability rules (PSR) throughout this restructuring process.
