Antonio Conte issues statement after Manchester United link

Antonio Conte insists he will only join a club when ‘the conditions are right’ after being linked with a move to Manchester United.

Conte, who is available after leaving Napoli in June, is one of the names on United’s radar with Michael Carrick’s position under threat.

United have opted to keep Carrick in charge for Sunday’s Premier League game against Bournemouth following the team’s 4-1 defeat away to Como in the Champions League on Wednesday night.

But a heavy loss for United this weekend could signal the end of Carrick’s time in charge at Old Trafford.

Reports in Italy this week have claimed that United have already held talks with Conte as a potential replacement for Carrick.

However, in a statement released on Friday afternoon, Conte has denied suggestions that he has demanded to be involved in United’s transfer strategy if he were to take the job.

‘Following recent media reports in Italy and abroad, I feel it is appropriate to clarify my position,’ Conte said.

‘My name has been linked with numerous clubs, but there are currently no negotiations at an advanced stage. Following a wonderful and successful spell in charge of Napoli, I will take the time I need to consider how and when to return to management. It will be a carefully considered decision, one l will make when I believe the conditions are right.

‘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, as there is currently no concrete basis for such assessments.

‘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.

‘Until then, any assumptions about my demands and my professional future remain speculation and cannot be treated as fact.’

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