Ole Gunnar Solskjaer could make stunning return to manage Man Utd as formal approach stance revealed

Manchester United have not ruled out making an approach to bring Ole Gunnar Solskjaer back to the club following Erik ten Hag's departure, it has been reported.

Ten Hag left Manchester United earlier on Monday after over two years in the role.

His last match in charge was a 2-1 defeat to West Ham on Sunday, a game which saw the Hammers secure a late victory following a controversial Jarrod Bowen penalty.

Ten Hag was appointed in the summer of 2022, replacing Solskjaer as permanent manager after Ralf Rangnick filled the role on an interim basis during the second half of the 2021/22 season.

According to the Manchester Evening News, there are believed to be concerns among senior club figures that United will be restricted in their search for a new manager, as a result of the compensation payout Ten Hag is due.

And it is claimed that approaching Solskjaer - who has not been in management since he was sacked by United in November 2021 - is not off the table.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer managed Man Utd between 2018 and 2021 - Getty

The report adds, though, that it is unclear whether United would simply bring the Norwegian in as a backroom staff member or as a successor to Ten Hag.

Danish outlet Tipsbladet reported last month that Solskjaer had turned down an approach to become the new manager of the Denmark men's national team as he was in talks with an unnamed 'big club'.

Speaking on an episode of The Overlap's Stick to Football earlier this year, Solskjaer revealed what it would take for him to return to management.

He said: "If you've managed Man Utd, you put your own criteria about what you want to work with. I love England and the Premier League. Even the Championship feels stronger than ever.

"But I don't feel bound to England. Maybe a different challenge where I need to experience a new culture and learn a new language.

"The DNA and identity of the club are important, a club where I can be the best me. It has to be a match.

"What I miss most is working with good people. Coming in every day, discussing football and putting a plan together for the next game ... Creating a culture where the staff enjoy their job and building a team together."