Manchester United appear to have received a significant boost in their pursuit of Mauricio Pochettino as head coach, with US Soccer reportedly identifying a potential replacement for the Argentine.
The former Chelsea and Tottenham boss is widely expected to become the next Manchester United manager, with reports suggesting talks have already taken place and personal terms are close to being finalised.
Pochettino Expected to Replace Carrick
If appointed, Pochettino would replace Michael Carrick, who remains in post but is expected to be relieved of his duties following a meeting of the United hierarchy that was due to take place in Monaco on Wednesday.
While the Argentine has emerged as United's number one option to succeed Carrick, should he make a return to the Premier League, it would leave the United States Men's National Team (USMNT) without a manager.
Guardiola Named as USMNT Target
However, The Athletic has reported that plans are in place to deal with a potential departure, as U.S. Soccer is expected to make Pep Guardiola their top target to replace Pochettino.
Guardiola has largely kept a low profile since leaving Manchester City at the end of last season. He was heavily linked with an immediate return to management but turned down the chance to coach the Italian national side.
The report adds that the Spaniard has been discussed internally as a candidate across multiple levels of the federation's hiring process. However, Guardiola has shown little recent interest in an imminent return to management.
Release Clause and Upcoming Fixtures
With US Soccer discussing candidates to replace Pochettino, it would appear they are resigned to the fact that the 54-year-old is Old Trafford-bound.
That said, The Athletic has also revealed that Pochettino is still expected to take charge of the USA's upcoming games against Haiti in the quarter-finals of the CONCACAF Nations League.
Manchester United are understood to be willing to pay the $10 million (£7.5m) release clause in Pochettino's contract with the USMNT, which was extended until 2030 after this summer's World Cup on home soil.
