Ledley King reveals why Manchester United manager target is unlikely to make Old Trafford move
By London correspondent Tony Hughes
Mauricio Pochettino should ignore interest from Europe’s elite clubs to commit his future to Tottenham, Ledley King has told Sky Sports.
The Tottenham legend is convinced the in-demand Spurs boss is “very happy” at White Hart Lane as he continues to guide the club’s unexpected title challenge.
The north Londoners have genuine hopes of winning their first league title in 55 years – although they are seven points adrift of leaders Leicester with six matches of the season remaining – and are almost certain to clinch a top-four spot that guarantees qualification for next season’s Champions League.
Pochettino has been widely hailed for transforming Spurs’ fortunes in just two seasons at the helm on a budget that dwarfs that of the team’s rivals.
The Argentine has been linked with taking over at Manchester United, while there is also said to be interest from European big-hitters like Real Madrid.
“We all know Manchester United is a huge club but at the moment there is a lot of uncertainty there with what’s happening,” said King in a question and answer session on the Sky Sports website. “At Tottenham, things seem to be very well balanced. He’s got a group of young players who are singing to his tune so I’m sure he’s just concentrating on finishing the season as well as possible.
Football Insider revealed last month that Spurs want to make Pochettino the best-paid manager in the club’s history by doubling his £3.5million-a-year salary to £7million-a-year.
Source close to the Spurs boardroom have said talks are well advanced on a new five-year deal that will be worth £35million.