Man United have made 'initial moves' for Julian Nagelsmann in new manager twist

United have made initial contact with Nagelsmann as they prepare contingency plans should Carrick's position become untenable.

Manchester United have made contact with Julian Nagelsmann and other managerial targets as they assess options beyond Michael Carrick, according to Football Insider. The club opted to retain Carrick following crisis talks on Monday, but preparations for a potential change are underway given United's poor start: just two wins from 12 games across all competitions.

Nagelsmann, 39, has long been admired by the Old Trafford board and was a contender for the job before Carrick's summer appointment following his interim spell. The former Bayern Munich and Germany manager is believed keen on the role and has been sounded out over his interest, though contact has not progressed beyond initial moves at this stage.

Other candidates including Antonio Conte and Fabian Hurzeler are also on the radar. Eddie Howe has separately emerged as the favourite among some at the club, including sporting director Jason Wilcox, though the former Newcastle manager is currently taking a break from football.