Manchester United are set to make 'formal' contact with Michael Carrick manager alternatives this month, according to GIVEMESPORT senior correspondent Ben Jacobs.
Man United officials will soon decide who the club's next permanent manager will be, with Carrick putting himself firmly in the frame to get it following his successful caretaker spell in charge.
Since replacing Ruben Amoirm in January, the 44-year-old has taken 23 points from a possible 30 available, taking the Red Devils up to third in the Premier League standings as a result.
Under Amorim, United were Champions League hopefuls, but now they are favourites to qualify for Europe's elite club competition next term, ahead of the likes of Aston Villa, Liverpool and Chelsea.
Carrick and his men need a top-five finish to return to the Champions League for the first time since they were knocked out at the group stage of the old format in 2023, and they are currently six points ahead of fifth-placed Liverpool.
Carrick is in contention to stay on at Old Trafford, but there are other candidates too.
Germany head coach Julian Nagelsmann during a press conference
Part of United's search for the next manager will include making formal contact with other candidates aside from Carrick.
When asked about potential United interest in USA boss Mauricio Pochettino, Jacobs told the United Stand that both Carrick and Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann are above the Argentine in United's thinking.
He said: "Nagelsmann and Carrick are higher than Pochettino currently. In April, there will be some formal outreach to other candidates."
With Nagelsmann on United's list and talks to be held this month, it is assumed that Red Devils chiefs will contact the 38-year-old German over the role.
His immediate focus will be on leading Germany to a successful 2026 World Cup campaign, and it remains to be seen whether he would be willing to agree a move to a club side before the tournament.
Nagelsmann Keen to Manage in the Premier League
Germany head coach Julian Nagelsmann biting his nails
While Naglesmann is focused on Germany, Jacobs has made it clear that he is 'open' to taking a job back in club football this summer, and he has long been interested in managing in the Premier League.
Jacobs added: “With Nagelsmann, he is contracted until 2028, and is open to a club job this summer. He has been keen to manage in the Premier League.”
While a move to United is far from guaranteed, it looks to be one of the 'genius' manager's better options available in the Premier League this summer.
Tottenham have just appointed Roberto De Zerbi, while it appears unlikely there will be opportunities at either Arsenal or Chelsea.
Meanwhile, Liverpool chiefs want Arne Slot to turn things around at Anfield after a disappointing season, and Pep Guardiola won't decide on his Manchester City future until the end of the season.
What is clear is that Nagelsmann appears to be high on United's shortlist if they decide against giving the job to Carrick permanently.