Man United have ‘concrete’ interest in appointing Kieran McKenna as next manager – sources
Man United are big admirers of Ipswich Town boss Kieran McKenna and he is emerging as strong contender to be their next manager, sources have told Football Insider.
A well-placed source has told Football Insider that Red Devils chiefs have been hugely impressed with his transformation of the Championship club and have a “concrete” interest in his services.
McKenna and Ipswich are on course for a second consecutive promotion as the Championship run-in approaches.
It is believed the 37-year-old is seen as a manager with strong Man United credentials following his time as assistant to Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and in the club’s academy as a coach.
Sources say he is seen as a “future Man United manager” by some at Old Trafford.
Club chiefs have been impressed by his character and profile, as well as his excellent track record during his time at Ipswich so far.
Man United’s new regime, led by British billionaire Sir Jim Ratcliffe and his INEOS outfit, are putting in place a model in which the head coach concentrates solely on the first team.
Man United chiefs see McKenna as ‘future manager’ after Ipswich success
As a result, recruitment will be left to the sporting director and recruitment team.
Ratcliffe and INEOS director of sport Dave Brailsford feel current Man United boss Erik ten Hag has had far too much input on transfers since his arrival.
Incoming club chiefs have lamented many poor and overpriced deals in the last two summers – including Antony’s arrival from Ajax for a reported £85million.
Football Insider revealed in February that Ten Hag is not seen as a long-term Man United manager and questions regarding his long-term future at the club remain.
McKenna’s Ipswich side sit top of the Championship ahead of Leeds and Leicester following a dramatic 3-2 win against Southampton on Monday (1 April).
The Tractor Boys were only promoted to the second tier last summer (2023) after finishing second in League One.
The up-and-coming boss has won 73 of his 125 games (58.4%) in charge at Portman Road.
In other news, Man United ready to accept 32-year-old offer.
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