Oh the fun of a 1.8 hippo

Saddled myself with a 1.8 freelander (it was very cheap!,so don't start)
90000 on the clock and it's developed a fairly loud knocking like gears slipping or similar when on full lock and applying power, seems to be coming from rear passenger side. Checked diif oil and there was none and an obvious trail of oil on the diff, not 100% sure where it's coming from yet.
Anyway after a tip up it's certainly 'smoothened' it out a bit. Before I start dismantling (I'm thinking driveshaft>diff bearing) does anyone know if this behaviour can be caused by the vcu? (I know it's not in great condition)
Thanks in advance

Hello and welcome
best to ask in the freelander section of the forum
https://www.landyzone.co.uk/forum/land-rover-freelander.9/

Welcome to the forum

Nowt wrong with Freelander's.