Man Utd set to 're-open' talks with world-class manager after first target 'rejects offer' to replace Erik ten Hag

Manchester United are set to re-open talks with a former managerial target if they decide to replace Erik ten Hag - having reportedly been rejected by a second candidate.

Ten Hag's position came under further scrutiny following Sunday's 3-0 defeat against Tottenham at Old Trafford.

United then gave away a two-goal lead at Porto in the Europa League on Thursday, and even trailed 3-2 before Harry Maguire's late equaliser.

The Athletic reported on Wednesday that United were planning on taking a 'long-term view' over Ten Hag's future, appearing to indicate that, even if the side lose to Aston Villa this weekend, the Dutchman will likely stay in charge.

But minority co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe - who will be at Villa Park - and INEOS held discussions with several managers over the summer as they contemplated whether to replace Ten Hag.

They eventually opted to award him a new contract after United won the FA Cup, but those discussions could restart amid the latest uncertainty at Old Trafford.

One of the managers they spoke to was Thomas Tuchel, who reportedly turned down the role due to issues surrounding the power structure at the club.

Now, i report that United will re-open talks with the German, who is still out of work following his Bayern Munich departure last summer, about assuming the role at Old Trafford if Ten Hag leaves.

It is also claimed that Ratcliffe's preference is to appoint either Graham Potter or Gareth Southgate, though the final decision would be agreed upon by the club's overall leadership group.

Meanwhile, Italian journalist Tancredi Palmeri claims that United approached Inter Milan manager Simone Inzaghi over taking over from Ten Hag this week.

However, the 48-year-old is believed to have turned down the approach in favour of remaining at the San Siro.

Twitter/@tancredipalmeri

Another candidate believed to be in the frame is Brentford manager Thomas Frank, whom i report spoke to United prior to last season's FA Cup final, which saw the Red Devils produce a surprise victory over Manchester City.

The bookmakers' favourite to become the next United manager, however, remains current assistant coach Ruud van Nistelrooy.

The former United striker was appointed to his role in the summer, having won two trophies with PSV during a year-long spell in charge between 2022 and 2023.