Roberto De Zerbi has emerged as a surprise candidate for the manager’s job at Manchester United should the club decide to sack Erik Ten Hag. 

Mail Sport has learned that United sounded out De Zerbi via intermediaries last week in addition to speaking to agents representing Kieran McKenna, Thomas Frank, Thomas Tuchel and Mauricio Pochettino as part of their contingency planning for Ten Hag’s potential departure.

United will conduct a thorough review of the season this week to determine whether Ten Hag will be permitted to see out the final year of his three-year contract at Old Trafford, with the manager left in the dark over his future when he left Manchester for a short holiday on Sunday. 

The Dutchman is adamant that he has done enough to stay on at United after winning trophies in each of his two seasons at the club, particularly given his impressively tactical display in Saturday’ FA Cup final victory over Manchester City and the huge progress made by young players.

De Zerbi is also being considered by Chelsea as they seek a quick appointment to replace Pochettino, along with McKenna, Frank and Leicester manager Enzo Maresca. 

Roberto De Zerbi as emerged as a surprise candidate for the manager’s job at Man United

The west London club are well aware of the fact that they could be competing with United for the same managers, which will lead them to accelerating their plans this week.

De Zerbi is available after leaving Brighton at the end of last season which counts in his favour, although his combustible manner and desire for control over recruitment could be a problem for both United and Chelsea. 

The Italian clashed with Brighton owner Tony Bloom over several signings last season and wants significant input in assembling his squad, whereas both United and Chelsea have put extensive recruitment teams in place.

Maresca is also seen as easily obtainable given Leicester’s financial problems and the looming threat of a points deduction next season for alleged Profit and Sustainability Rules breaches. 

Brentford would demand significant compensation for Frank, while McKenna is determined to wait and assess all offers as he is also wanted by Brighton in addition to United and Chelsea, and has been offered a new contract by Ipswich.