Manchester United will be required to pay millions in compensation to appoint Eddie Howe as their new manager, according to reports. The former Newcastle boss is among the contenders to replace Michael Carrick, who is expected to be sacked after overseeing the club's worst start to a season in 40 years.
Compensation figure for Howe emerges
Under the terms of his departure from Newcastle, the Magpies would still be entitled to around £3m in compensation, according to talkSPORT. Howe has been out of work since leaving Newcastle in the summer.
It is deemed likely that a new permanent manager will be in charge for United's next game against Liverpool after the international break. Mauricio Pochettino has reportedly emerged as the early frontrunner, even though he remains contracted to the United States national team until the summer of 2030.
Pochettino also in contention
It is claimed that United would need to pay around £7m in compensation to land the Argentine head coach, and potentially millions more to recruit his backroom staff. A similar situation applies to Howe, who would command a seven-figure fee despite being out of work.
Howe was reportedly considered by United when they debated sacking Carrick after their defeat to Bournemouth last month. At the time, it was reported that the Red Devils decided against making a change because they were not convinced by the available options to replace him.
Other candidates under consideration
Despite that, Howe remains among the contenders to succeed Carrick in the Old Trafford dugout, with Julian Nagelsmann also under consideration. Nagelsmann is unattached, having left his role as Germany head coach following their World Cup exit in the round of 32.
Howe was initially planning to stay away from management for a while after leaving Newcastle, but would seemingly be ready to return if United come calling. He boasts a wealth of Premier League experience, having helped to establish Bournemouth as a top-flight side before joining the Magpies and leading them to Carabao Cup glory last year.
Whoever is appointed to succeed Carrick will be tasked with dragging the Red Devils away from a relegation battle, as well as progressing to the Champions League knockout stages.
