Liverpool are reportedly concerned that the club's current director of research Ian Graham could make a controversial move to bitter rivals Manchester United.

The Lowdown: Graham leaving Liverpool in May

It has recently been confirmed that Graham is currently seeing out a 12-month notice period at Anfield, having decided to leave his role at the club. That means he will depart next May after playing a crucial part in Liverpool's much-heralded recruitment during the Jurgen Klopp era.

Given Graham's reputation in his role, it is a clear blow for the Reds to lose him, and a recent report could potentially make the manner of his departure even worse.

The Latest: United move on the cards?

According to Football Insider, Liverpool 'fear' that Graham could now move to United, in what is described as a potentially 'controversial' development.

It is also noted that former Reds sporting director Michael Edwards has been eyed up by the Red Devils as they look to replicate their Merseyside rivals' success of recent years.

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The Verdict: Wouldn't go down well

While Graham's possible move to United wouldn't be comparable to the blow of a Liverpool player heading to Old Trafford, it is still unlikely to go down well at Anfield or among the Reds' fan base.

The intensity of the rivalry is arguably unrivalled in the English game, and the idea of Graham strengthening United moving forward would surely not sit well with Kopites.

That being said, it is still his job and it is only natural that he could consider such a high-profile role - ultimately, his final decision could boil down to how much respect he has for Liverpool.