Mauricio Pochettino says yes to Manchester United project as deal moves closer

Mauricio Pochettino has agreed in principle to become Manchester United's next head coach if the club decide to sack Michael Carrick, with negotiations reportedly reaching an advanced stage.

The former Tottenham and Chelsea manager is currently in charge of the United States national team, but is understood to be keen on returning to the Premier League and taking over at Old Trafford.

Manchester United would need to pay around £7m to release Pochettino from the contract he signed with the US Soccer Federation in August, which runs until 2030. The compensation is not considered a major obstacle for the club.

United chief executive Omar Berrada and director of football Jason Wilcox are due to meet minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe in Monaco on Wednesday to discuss the club's difficult start to the season and decide Carrick's future.

Pochettino is reportedly ready to leave the United States immediately if United make their move. However, the club have yet to complete the formal process with the US federation.

Carrick remains in charge for now, but the expectation is that he will be dismissed following the meeting between United's senior figures.