Manchester United make advancements in securing USMNT boss Mauricio Pochettino
What's the story
Manchester United have intensified their efforts to hire Mauricio Pochettino as their next head coach. According to The Athletic, the club has reached out to US Soccer Federation in a bid to secure the services of the current USMNT boss. The move comes as part of United's contingency plan should they decide to part ways with Michael Carrick. Here are further details.
Contractual obligations
United working on securing Pochettino's services
Sources familiar with the negotiations, who spoke on condition of anonymity, have confirmed that Manchester United have officially reached out to US Soccer.
To release Pochettino from his contract, which runs until the 2030 World Cup, a buyout fee of around $10 million (£7.4m) would need to be paid.
The club is now working with CEO Omar Berrada to finalize an agreement with both Pochettino and the federation.
Current commitments
USMNT commitment and Carrick decision
Pochettino is currently with the USMNT, preparing for two Concacaf Nations League games against Haiti next week.
Manchester United have no objections to him continuing in his current role before making a return to English football.
The club's executives are expected to inform Carrick about their decision face-to-face after returning from meetings in Monaco.
Notably, Carrick took training on successive days with the players available.
Deal
An agreement in principle with Pochettino
Earlier, it came to light that Manchester United are reportedly in agreement in principle with Pochettino to become their next head coach if Carrick is sacked, as per Sky Sports News.
While an agreement has been reached, finer details were still being worked out between Pochettino's camp and Manchester United.
Pochettino has been on United's radar for years, often seen as a potential candidate during managerial changes.
If appointed, Pochettino's first game as United head coach will be against Liverpool in Matchweek 11 of the Premier League season on November 22.