Michael Carrick replacement race takes another twist as key Manchester United figure 'set for exit'

Bayern Munich are targeting Manchester United's director of recruitment Christopher Vivell, potentially disrupting Nagelsmann's path to replace Carrick.

Manchester United face uncertainty over their managerial future and recruitment structure. Head coach Michael Carrick has come under pressure following a poor run of form, though a 3-2 Champions League comeback win over Roma on Tuesday may have bought him time. The club's hierarchy is expected to reassess his position after the Aston Villa match on Sunday, with a final decision likely at the November international break.

Should United decide to make a change, they are considering three candidates: Julian Nagelsmann, Eddie Howe, and Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler. Nagelsmann has an internal advantage through his prior working relationship with Christopher Vivell, United's director of recruitment, from their time together at RB Leipzig.

However, Bayern Munich have now entered the picture, identifying Vivell as a potential replacement for their recently departed head of scouting Nils Schmadtke. If Vivell leaves Old Trafford for Germany, it would significantly weaken Nagelsmann's candidacy for the United job.