Manchester United 'had eight managers on shortlist before choosing Erik ten Hag'

Manchester United reportedly had eight managers on their shortlist before choosing Ajax's Erik ten Hag to become their next boss.

It has been widely reported in recent days that the Dutch boss has agreed a deal in principle to take charge at Old Trafford in the summer.

However, before opting for the 52-year-old, United had a total of eight managerial targets to consider according to ESPN.

Leicester City's Brendan Rodgers was a name being considered by the United hierarchy, but following a drop off in form from the Foxes this season, the 49-year-old was removed from consideration.

Paris Saint-Germain's Mauricio Pochettino was the boss most heavily linked along with Ten Hag, and it is reported that United were concerned by the possibility of Real Madrid hijacking any deal.

Spain boss Luis Enrique, Sevilla's Julen Lopetegui, former Real manager Zinedine Zidane, Julian Nagelsmann of Bayern Munich and Chelsea's Thomas Tuchel were the other names shortlisted, although the latter two were quickly dismissed as unrealistic targets.