Michael Carrick is on the brink of being sacked as Manchester United manager after a heavy Champions League defeat to Como in midweek. He is expected to remain in charge for Sunday's match against Bournemouth, but another loss could end his tenure at Old Trafford.
Eddie Howe has reportedly emerged as the favourite to take over if Carrick is dismissed. The former Newcastle boss has been available since leaving St James' Park over the summer.
Wilcox backs Howe appointment
United's director of football, Jason Wilcox, is expected to have the final say on Carrick's future and has already selected his preferred replacement, according to talkSPORT. Wilcox is said to favour appointing Howe, who was considered by the Red Devils before Ruben Amorim's arrival in 2024.
On that occasion, Howe was put forward by then-sporting director Dan Ashworth, but United opted for Amorim instead. The report states that Wilcox values Howe's prior experience of managing in the Premier League.
Nagelsmann also in contention
Head of recruitment Christopher Vivell would prefer to hand the job to Julian Nagelsmann. The former Germany boss has already been sounded out for preliminary talks to gauge his interest in potentially replacing Carrick.
Fabian Hurzeler is also admired by United's hierarchy, but it is claimed he would not be keen on leaving Brighton to join the Red Devils.
Other candidates considered
Antonio Conte's representatives are said to have reached out to United to express his interest in taking charge, but the Italian is not expected to be among the leading candidates. He was previously overlooked due to his fiery nature, while his preferred back-five system is similar to the unsuccessful approach favoured by Amorim during his time in charge.
Aston Villa boss Unai Emery also fits Wilcox's criteria but would be expensive to prise away from Villa Park, even if he wanted the job. Meanwhile, Mauricio Pochettino and Kieran McKenna are believed to be outside contenders, having been involved in previous processes.
