Antonio Conte has clarified his managerial future amid speculation linking him to Manchester United, while Fabian Hurzeler has also addressed the rumours. Current United boss Michael Carrick is under pressure after a 4-1 Champions League defeat to Como on Wednesday, though the club insists he will remain for Sunday's Premier League match against Bournemouth.
Conte denies advanced negotiations
The former Chelsea and Tottenham head coach, who has been out of work since leaving Napoli in June, took to social media to respond to reports that he had already held talks with United. In a statement, he said there are "no negotiations at an advanced stage" and dismissed claims about his financial demands and concerns over his "strong personality" as "unfounded".
Conte wrote: "Following recent media reports in Italy and abroad, I feel it is appropriate to clarify my position. My name has been linked with numerous clubs, but there are currently no negotiations at an advanced stage."
Hurzeler focused on Brighton
Fabian Hurzeler, whose Brighton side are performing well in the Premier League, has also been linked with the United job. Reports suggest the German has no interest in the role at this stage, with claims that United would need to pay a world-record fee for a manager due to his contract containing no release clause.
Asked about the links ahead of Brighton's trip to Liverpool, Hurzeler said: "I'm really focused on my job here. I have no time to think about these rumours because we play every three days and, beside that, I have a lot of respect for Michael Carrick and what he has done with Manchester United the last season."
Other names mentioned as potential successors to Carrick include Julian Nagelsmann, Eddie Howe, Cesc Fabregas and Unai Emery.
