Shock managerial candidate is a possible replacement for Erik ten Hag at Man United

A shock managerial candidate for Manchester United has emerged if Sir Jim Ratcliffe's team decide to sack Erik ten Hag.

The British billionaire is on the verge of completing his purchase of a minority stake within Man United after Sheikh Jassim pulled out of the bidding war.

His offer is thought to be for a 25 per cent stake worth £1.4 billion as part of a stage buyout of the entire club.

Ten Hag is thought to have Ratcliffe's backing despite an underwhelming start to the 2023/24 season, with the Red Devils already suffering four Premier League defeats.

They've also lost their opening two fixtures in the Champions League as the odds were slashed on the Dutchman to be sacked last month.

If Ratcliffe's team decide to relieve Ten Hag of his duties at Man United, Graham Potter could be a possible replacement, according to Alan Nixon.

Former cycling boss Sir Dave Brailsford, who could become part of Man United's committee, is a fan of Potter and wanted him at Nice.

The 48-year-old is out of work following his dismissal at Chelsea in April.

He had rose to fame after producing managerial heroics at Brighton, where he enjoyed three-and-bit seasons at the club.

Graham Potter on the touchline during his Chelsea stint. Image: Getty

During his time at the AMEX Stadium outfit, the Englishman secured their highest top flight finish of ninth place in the 2021/22 season.

He then landed the Chelsea job but failed to deliver at Stamford Bridge.

The 48-year-old has been linked with the likes of Rangers and Lyon, with a return to the Premier League supposedly on the cards.

Will Potter manage Man United in the future? Watch this space.

SPORTbible are on WhatsApp! We've launched a dedicated news channel to send you the latest news, features and plenty more directly on WhatsApp and all you need to do to sign up is click through to our one-way broadcast channel here for 'SPORTbible News' to appear in the 'Updates' tab on your WhatsApp.