Real Madrid are set to rival Manchester United’s interest in Mauricio Pochettino, with the Argentine expected to leave his role as head coach of Paris Saint-Germain at the end of the season.
Pochettino is understood to have been a target for the Spanish side last summer, though Real Madrid were frustrated in their pursuit and instead turned to former manager Carlo Ancelotti.
Ancelotti’s future is uncertain despite Real’s status as league leaders in La Liga, with much dependent on how the side fare in the Champions League this season.
Real lost their last-16 first leg to PSG and an early elimination could spell the end for Ancelotti, with the Mail reporting that interest could be renewed in Pochettino at the end of the campaign.
The 49-year-old is believed to be both attainable and open to leaving the Parc des Princes and has been linked with the vacant role at Manchester United.
The Red Devils are currently conducting a search for a new permanent manager after appointing Ralf Rangnick on an interim basis until the end of the current season.
Pochettino has been a long-term target for the Premier League side and – alongside Ajax’s Erik ten Hag – is believed to be a front runner for the position, but interest from the Spanish capital could complicate United’s pursuit.
Pochettino’s close relationship with Kylian Mbappe has emerged as a factor in Real’s interest, with the PSG forward expected to complete a free transfer move to the Bernabeu this summer.
