Manchester United have decisions to make regarding a successor to Michael Carrick with one of their top targets giving his stance as a condition to Marcus Rashford's transfer future has emerged
12:58, 07 Feb 2026Updated 13:00, 07 Feb 2026
Manchester United interim manager Michael Carrick has got off to a perfect start
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Manchester United interim manager Michael Carrick has got off to a perfect start(Image: Manchester United via Getty Images)
Manchester United are targeting a fourth straight Premier League victory when Tottenham arrive at Old Trafford on Saturday.
Michael Carrick currently boasts a perfect record during his second tenure as United manager. Since taking over from Ruben Amorim, interim boss Carrick has made an impressive impact. His opening two matches in this spell delivered spectacular triumphs over Manchester City and Arsenal. His team appeared destined to settle for a draw against Fulham last week, but a late Benjamin Sesko strike secured a thrilling 3-2 victory.
One of Carrick's former team-mates, Wayne Rooney, will surely be delighted by this success, while the United icon's son Kai Rooney has begun making his way through the club's youth system. Reports have indicated that the 16 year old, who has made his bow for United's Under-18s this campaign, has been presented with a fresh contract valued at up to £50,000 annually at Carrington. Here's all the latest news from Old Trafford.
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Kai Rooney issues contract response
MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - AUGUST 23: Manchester United's Kai Rooney in action during the Under 18 Premier League between Manchester United U18s and Middlesbrough U18s at Carrington Training Ground on August 23, 2025 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Anthony Devlin/Manchester United via Getty Images)
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Kai Rooney is making his way in the game at Manchester United(Image: Manchester United, Manchester United via Getty Images)
On Thursday, The Sun claimed Rooney's son had been presented with a new agreement by United.
The deal allegedly offered to him would convert to a three-year professional contract when he completes school this summer and be valued at £50k annually.
A signing-on bonus is also referenced. It's alleged that Kai and his family have until July to make their decision on whether to pen the deal and are reportedly under no pressure to remain.
Michael Carrick has enjoyed a great spell as interim manager at Manchester United so far
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Michael Carrick has enjoyed a great spell as interim manager at Manchester United so far(Image: Getty Images)
Several other publications have also covered this supposed new contract, including the Daily Mail. Now, Kai seems to have responded to these contract speculation rumours via his Instagram story. He posted "Don't listen to mail." This was followed by three laughing emojis.
United legend Rooney discussed his son's Under-18s debut on The Wayne Rooney Show, reports the Mirror. He commented: "Kai got moved up to the Under-18s squad for the Youth Cup and it was great to see him come on.
"It brought back memories of when I played in the Youth Cup for Everton. It was a proud moment and I'm delighted for him. Hopefully he continues that and he can have a good run with the team."
Marcus Rashford agreement reached
Marcus Rashford during Barcelona's Copa del Rey victory at Albacete
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Marcus Rashford during Barcelona's Copa del Rey victory at Albacete(Image: NurPhoto, NurPhoto via Getty Images)
Speaking of academy talents, there has apparently been a development concerning homegrown United striker Marcus Rashford's future. The 28-year-old is currently on loan at Barcelona.
In Spain, Rashford has flourished and has already reached double figures for goals this campaign under Hansi Flick. When he signed his loan arrangement with the Catalan giants, a £26million buy option was inserted.
According to Spanish publication Sport, Barcelona have now decided they will activate that option - provided Rashford reaches the end of the season without picking up an injury.
The report reveals manager Flick and sporting director Deco are convinced it would be impossible to secure another player of Rashford's calibre for £26m.
Previous speculation had indicated they were keen to prolong Rashford's loan for an additional year or broker a more affordable arrangement, but circumstances seem to have shifted.
Luis Enrique decision
Luis Enrique head coach of PSG celebrates the victory after winning FIFA Intercontinental Cup 2025 Final match between Paris Saint-Germain FC and Flamengo at Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium on December 17, 2025 in Doha, Qatar. (Photo by Jose Breton/Pics Action/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
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Luis Enrique head coach of PSG(Image: Jose Breton/Pics Action/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
Luis Enrique is expected to turn down United in favour of signing a new deal with Paris Saint Germain.
United had made Enrique one of their main targets in the club’s search for a permanent manager. Reports claim Red Devils representatives travelled to Paris to hold talks with the former Spain and Barcelona boss.
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His current deal with PSG runs until the end of next season, and it has been suggested United tried to persuade him not to sign a new contract. But it's understood the 55-year-old Spanish coach believes managing United is not the right project for him.
And he also has reservations about taking charge of a club which might not be in the Champions League next season. The news is a blow to United owners the Glazers and Sir Jim Ratcliffe, who had made Enrique one of their main targets.