Conte dismisses reports of Man United talks

Antonio Conte has denied reports that he is in advanced talks with Manchester United over replacing under-pressure manager Michael Carrick.

The former Chelsea manager was linked with the Old Trafford job following United’s humiliating 4-1 Champions League defeat to Como on Wednesday, which intensified speculation over Carrick’s future.

Italian newspaper La Repubblica reported that Conte had held talks with United’s board and demanded full control of the club’s transfer policy, alongside the right to appoint his own coaching staff.

However, the Italian has dismissed reports of advanced negotiations with any club, calling claims about his financial demands and managerial conditions unfounded.
“My name has been linked with numerous clubs, but there are currently no negotiations at an advanced stage,” Conte wrote on Instagram.

“I have read reports of financial demands and requests for full control that I have supposedly already made to the clubs mentioned, as well as reservations about what has been described as my ‘strong personality’. These reports are unfounded.

“Should a concrete opportunity arise, that will be the time to hold discussions with the club concerned and jointly consider the terms of a potential agreement, with due regard for both parties’ needs and the qualities and approach that define my work as a manager.”

Conte’s statement comes as uncertainty surrounds Carrick’s position at United following the defeat to Cesc Fàbregas’ Como, which extended the club’s winless run across all competitions.

Carrick is expected to remain in charge for Sunday’s Premier League fixture against Bournemouth, although reports indicate that United have begun considering potential replacements.

Former Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe and ex-Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann have also been linked with the role.

Conte has been without a club since leaving Napoli at the end of last season. He won the Serie A title during his first season in Naples before adding the Supercoppa Italiana during his final campaign.

The Italian previously enjoyed success in England, leading Chelsea to the Premier League title in his debut season in 2016/17. He also guided the London club to the FA Cup in 2018, defeating Manchester United in the final.