Erik ten Hag has completed an interview at Manchester United as the club continue their search for a new permanent manager.
Ten Hag has held discussions with the Premier League side over the vacant position, with the Ajax manager having emerged as a frontrunner to take charge at Old Trafford.
According to Telegraph, United still plan to meet with other candidates from a shortlist that includes Mauricio Pochettino, Luis Enrique and Julen Lopetegui, though Thomas Tuchel is not considered a viable option despite the uncertainty at Chelsea.
Ten Hag remains the favourite for the role and is expected to leave Ajax this summer regardless of whether he is chosen as Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s permanent successor.
The 52-year-old has impressed the Red Devils’ hierarchy with his work at the Dutch side, winning two Eredivisie titles and guiding the club to the Champions League semi-finals in 2018/19.
During the meeting, Erik ten Hag wanted to hear about Manchester United budget and plans for the future. His English level has now improved – ten Hag feels ready to try Premier League experience soon. 🔴 #MUFC
Man United will also meet other managers. Process still ongoing. pic.twitter.com/vMTw4iCnCc
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) March 23, 2022
Ten Hag’s rebuilding of that side after the loss of key personnel – including Matthijs de Ligt and Frenkie de Jong – has also won him admirers at Manchester United, alongside his faith in youth and attractive brand of football.
The report is echoed in the Mail, who add that Ajax will not stand in Ten Hag’s way should he be offered the position, despite the coach being contracted to the side until 2023.
A compensation package of around £4m is expected and the two sides share a strong working relationship, given then presence of former United goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar as chief executive at Ajax.
