Transfer Centre

Manchester United 'identify top target to replace Erik ten Hag'

By Devesh Jaganath | 25 May 2024

Man Utd 'identify top target to replace Ten Hag'

Thomas Tuchel reportedly emerges as the frontrunner to replace Erik ten Hag if Manchester United opt to part ways with the Dutchman at the end of the season.

Thomas Tuchel has reportedly emerged as the frontrunner to replace Erik ten Hag if Manchester United opt to part ways with the Dutchman at the end of the season.

Under Ten Hag's leadership, the Red Devils finished eighth in the Premier League this season, marking their lowest league position since 1990.

Despite reaching the FA Cup final, numerous reports over the last week have claimed that United's new owners INEOS have already made the decision to sack the Dutchman regardless of the outcome at Wembley Stadium.

Several high-profile managers, including the likes of Kieran McKenna, Mauricio Pochettino and England boss Gareth Southgate, have been linked with a possible move to Old Trafford.

Almost inevitably, Xavi's name has also come up following his dismissal as Barcelona manager earlier this week.

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag on May 6, 2024 © Reuters

Tuchel frontrunner to replace Ten Hag as Man Utd manager

However, The Guardian reports that Tuchel is now the leading candidate to succeed Ten Hag, given his successful track record of managing big-name players.

The report adds that the search for a new manager is being led by Sir Jim Ratcliffe, supported by key figures from INEOS and United's technical director Jason Wilcox.

It is understood that Bayern Munich tried to convince Tuchel to remain in Bavaria despite ending the season without silverware, but the 50-year-old German manager was unwilling to agree to stay on.

A separate report by German football expert Christian Falk suggests that Bayern now believe Tuchel had already spoken with and agreed a deal with the Red Devils prior to announcing his departure.

Manchester United defender Raphael Varane on August 14, 2023 © Reuters

Several departures expected at Old Trafford in the summer

Aside from the managerial position, Man United are expected to undergo a major overhaul in the summer, with Raphael Varane and Anthony Martial already confirmed to depart the club next week.

Seasoned players Tom Heaton and Jonny Evans are unlikely to be offered new contracts, which will see them become free agents in the off-season, while Casemiro and Christian Eriksen's futures are still up in the air.

Additionally, loanees Jadon Sancho, Mason Greenwood and Donny van de Beek are expected to be moved on to raise funds that will be used to bring in new faces for the 2024-25 campaign.

Bayern, on the other hand, are believed to be on the verge of unveiling former Burnley boss Vincent Kompany as their new manager.