Manchester United discuss potential Pochettino appointment

Manchester United have opened discussions with Mauricio Pochettino about potentially replacing head coach Michael Carrick, but the club has not confirmed an appointment or an agreement with the current United States manager.

Reports describe Pochettino as a leading candidate and say he is interested in the job. BBC Sport reported that he would wait for an official approach and wants to act respectfully toward US Soccer. Another report said United had reached a verbal agreement in principle, while separate reporting described talks as ongoing. The accounts therefore differ on how far the discussions have advanced.

United would need to secure Pochettino’s release from his US Soccer contract, signed in August. BBC Sport reported a release cost of £7.5 million; other reports, citing The Athletic, put a buyout clause at £7.44 million. These figures are rounded versions of a similar amount. One report said the clause would not cover Pochettino’s coaching staff.

Carrick remained in post as of Wednesday, November 11, and his future was due to be discussed at a meeting in Monaco that day. Chief executive Omar Berrada and director of football Jason Wilcox were expected to meet co-owner Jim...