"They want to..." - Journalist claims Man Utd bidders have reached key decision that will delight supporters

The two public bidders for Manchester United want Erik ten Hag to remain in his position if they complete a takeover of the club, according to a respected journalist.

Ten Hag has inspired a rebuild at United this season, with the side in third place in the Premier League and having won the Carabao Cup.

The chance of a cup treble remains this season, with United still in the FA Cup and Europa League.

According to the Daily Mirror's Simon Mullock, both public bidders - Sheikh Jassim and his foundation, and Sir Jim Ratcliffe - want Ten Hag to stay as manager in the event of a successful takeover, believing he is the 'right man to take [United] back to the top'.

It is claimed that they are pleased with the 'progress' made under the Dutchman, and are said to want to negotiate a new contract with him.

Man Utd bidders reach Ten Hag decision

Mullock claims that, regardless of who owns the club, Ten Hag will be offered a new contract to continue his work at Old Trafford.

It is claimed that the feedback from representatives of Sheikh Jassim, and from Ratcliffe's Ineos Group, is that Ten Hag is believed to be 'the right manager to bring back the glory days'.

Although it was never truly in doubt, reports that Ten Hag's position is safe will delight United fans, with the club having become revitalised under his stewardship.

They have lost just two games in all competitions - away to Liverpool and Arsenal - since the World Cup, and the chance of a top three finish in the Premier League is certainly a realistic one.

The Dutchman has refused to address takeover talk, with his full focus on footballing matters.

However, prior to the FA Cup quarter-final against Fulham this weekend, Ten Hag did reveal he had met with Ratcliffe during his visit to Old Trafford on Friday.

He said (quotes via Daily Mail): "I just met them and shook hands but I am focused on the game.

"We play a big game on Sunday and all our focus is on that. Others in the club are dealing with potential investors."