Eddie Howe has emerged as the leading contender to become the new manager of Manchester United.
According to transfer reporter Alex Crook, United technical director Jason Wilcox is leaning towards appointing Howe if Michael Carrick is sacked.
The club’s head of recruitment Christopher Vivell prefers Julian Nagelsmann, but Wilcox’s opinion is likely to hold more weight in the eyes of Sir Jim Ratcliffe and the Glazer family.
Carrick is on the brink after United were hammered by Como in the Champions League on Wednesday.
While he is expected to take charge of Sunday’s game against Bournemouth, United have already started looking for replacements.
Howe is Wilcox’s preferred option due to his experience in the Premier League.
He twice led the Magpies to Champions League qualification, and ended the club’s 70-year wait for a major domestic trophy with the Carabao Cup triumph in 2025.
He resigned from his position after being frustrated with Newcastle’s transfer policy this summer.
While he is not desperate to return to management, the English boss would be interested if United come up with an offer.
Antonio Conte and Fabian Hurzeler have also been linked, but neither of them are likely to get the Old Trafford job.
Conte’s confrontational style could put United off, and Hurzeler remains committed to Brighton & Hove Albion’s long-term project.