Manchester United are finalising a deal for Mauricio Pochettino to take over as head coach should the club decide to relieve Michael Carrick of his duties amid a poor run of results.
According to The Athletic, the Red Devils have identified the Argentine as their preferred successor, with negotiations over personal terms already underway between the club and his representatives.
Sources familiar with the discussions say United have been ironing out the terms of a potential agreement, with no significant hurdles anticipated, although the club is yet to formally approach the United States Soccer Federation over his release.
Pochettino, who currently manages the United States men's national team, is reportedly eager to take charge at Old Trafford, having harboured ambitions of managing Manchester United for several years.
His departure from the USMNT would require United to pay an estimated 10 million dollars in compensation to the federation, alongside additional payments should his coaching staff accompany him to England.
The developments come as Carrick faces mounting pressure following a disappointing spell that has left United struggling in the Premier League.
The club has reportedly registered just three victories in 15 matches, with its recent performances raising concerns among the leadership.
Carrick took charge of training at the club's Carrington facility on Tuesday as chief executive Omar Berrada and director of football Jason Wilcox travelled to Monaco for scheduled meetings with co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe.
Pochettino, 54, has extensive Premier League experience, having previously managed Southampton, Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea.
His most successful spell in England came at Tottenham, where he established the club among the Premier League's leading sides and guided them to the 2019 UEFA Champions League final.
He has also managed Paris Saint-Germain, winning the French Ligue 1 title during the 2021-2022 season.
The Argentine took over the United States national team in 2024 following Gregg Berhalter's departure and has won 21 of his 35 matches in charge.
His tenure included guiding the Americans to the knockout stages of the 2026 World Cup, although they were eliminated by Belgium.
United's interest in Pochettino dates back nearly a decade, with the former Tottenham boss repeatedly considered for the managerial position during previous coaching transitions.
If appointed, he would become the latest manager tasked with restoring Manchester United's competitiveness and returning the club to the summit of English football.
