Blackburn Rovers have made a formal approach to Manchester United to speak with U21 coach Warren Joyce.

The Daily Mail says Rovers made an official approach for Joyce before Louis van Gaal's sacking on Monday.

It is understood the 51-year-old was interviewed for the Ewood Park vacancy last week after United granted permission.

Sources at United suggest Joyce would be keen on the move – a first Football League job since 2000 – if he was afforded assurances by the owners, Venky's, whose running of the club has come under scrutiny.