Man Utd identify FIRST CHOICE Ten Hag replacement

Cameron Smith

• 7 May 2024 20:30 BST
• 3 min read

Manchester United have reportedly made Gareth Southgate their number one target to replace Erik ten Hag this summer.

Ten Hag, 54, is under huge pressure at Old Trafford following a disappointing 2023-24 campaign and his future at the club is by no means secure.

FootballTransfers understands that Ten Hag’s recruitment has been deemed a major problem by Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS, and the former Ajax manager could be sacked this summer after a poor run of results.

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Man Utd have lost 18 games in all competitions so far this season - the most in a single campaign for over 45 years - and they are on course for their lowest finishing position since 1990.

As a result, the Red Devils are monitoring several different managers as possible replacements for Ten Hag.

Thomas Tuchel, Roberto De Zerbi, Zinedine Zidane, Thomas Frank and Graham Potter have all been linked with a move to Old Trafford, but Southgate is currently Man Utd’s preferred choice, according to Foot Mercato’s Santi Aouna.

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The French journalist has revealed that England boss Southgate has been named as INEOS’ top target, with Man Utd hoping to agree a deal soon in order to announce his arrival after Euro 2024.

Ratcliffe and Sir Dave Brailsford are both keen for Southgate to replace Ten Hag in the Old Trafford dugout this summer, although a deal hasn’t been agreed yet.

Bayern rule out Ten Hag pursuit

Bayern Munich are also on the hunt for a new manager this summer, with Tuchel set to leave, but they have ruled out a move for Ten Hag.

The Man Utd boss was previously on the Bavarians’ shortlist, however he is no longer a candidate to replace Tuchel, according to Christian Falk, despite holding talks with the Bayern hierarchy.

Hansi Flick and the aforementioned De Zerbi appear to be the leading contenders to take over at the Allianz Arena.