Manchester United close to Pochettino deal if Carrick is sacked

Manchester United are close to agreeing a deal with Mauricio Pochettino to become their next head coach if the club decide to dismiss Michael Carrick.

The Argentine, currently in charge of the United States national team, is understood to be ready to take over at Old Trafford. However, no final decision has been made on Carrick's future.

United would reportedly have to pay around £7m to release Pochettino from his recently extended contract with US Soccer, which runs until 2030. The compensation is not considered a major obstacle for the Premier League club.

Chief executive Omar Berrada and director of football Jason Wilcox are due to meet minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe in Monaco on Wednesday to review the team's disappointing start to the season and make their recommendation.

Carrick arrived at the club's Carrington training ground on Wednesday morning, but his position remains under serious threat.

Pochettino has previously been considered for the United job and has Premier League experience from his spells with Southampton, Tottenham and Chelsea.