Manchester United are now looking to get ahead in the race for an "exceptional" player, with Michael Carrick personally an admirer.
Man Utd eyeing new signings amid Carrick's perfect start
Few would have predicted the start Carrick has made to life as Man United manager, with the 44-year-old winning his first three matches, but Gary Neville has insisted he shouldn't be given the job on a permanent basis, regardless of how he performs.
Neville said: "Michael shouldn’t get the job at the end of the season, in my opinion. And I’m saying this really unemotionally, right?
"It’s nothing to do with what two weeks ago, where to be fair, I agree with Roy, that no one would have mentioned Michael for the job, right? If you’re going to earn your stripes and manage one of the biggest clubs in the world and handle the pressure that’s going to be thrown at you, I think you have to have that years of experience personally."
It remains to be seen whether Carrick emerges as a serious contender for the job, but whoever becomes the next permanent manager will be tasked with bringing in a replacement for Casemiro this summer, at which point the Brazilian's contract expires.
Manchester United's Casemiro in action
According to a report from Spain, Man United are looking to get ahead of rival suitors in the race for Club Brugge's Aleksandar Stankovic, with Tottenham Hotspur also identifying the midfielder as a major target.
With Stankovic's contract not set to expire until 2029, the Belgian side are in a strong negotiating position, but 'everything indicates' a move to the Premier League could be on the cards.
Although it is unclear whether Carrick will remain at Old Trafford beyond the summer, the report makes it clear he is a big fan of the Club Brugge star, having identified him as the 'ideal' midfield target.
A general view of Old Trafford during the Premier League match Manchester United vs Fulham Related
[Man Utd open talks to sign "incredible" £43m star in summer, he's keen to join](https://www.footballfancast.com/man-utd-open-transfer-talks-cristiano-ronaldo-keen-on-move/ "Man Utd open talks to sign "incredible" £43m star in summer, he's keen to join")
The Red Devils are in negotiations.
Stankovic could be "exceptional" long-term signing
The 20-year-old has certainly caught the eye with his performances for Club Brugge this season, being praised by scout Jacek Kulig on X back in October.
The Serbian has predominantly featured as a defensive midfielder, but he has proven himself as a reliable source of goals and assists, chipping in with 11 goal involvements in 36 matches for Club Brugge in all competitions.
The youngster was particularly impressive against Marseille in the Champions League at the end of January, bagging a goal, providing two assists and making two interceptions to help Club Brugge book their place in the play-off round.
As such, Stankovic is clearly a well-rounded central midfielder, and he could be an excellent long-term signing for Man United.