Man United Exclusive: Roberto De Zerbi is now 'stand-out candidate' after Dan Ashworth reveal

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Published on:

29 Feb 2024, 7:38 am

Brighton boss Roberto De Zerbi is a very strong contender to become the next Man United manager, sources have told Football Insider.

The future of current United boss Erik ten Hag is under threat following Sir Jim Ratcliffe's recent investment - with Football Insider revealing (16 February) that he is not seen as a long-term United manager.

A well-placed source has told Football Insider that De Zerbi, 44, is seen by United as a "stand-out candidate" to replace the Dutchman.

Club chiefs feel his front-foot, aggressive playing style far better fits the Red Devils' ethos than that of Ten Hag, while he also has a proven track record of improving and developing players.

De Zerbi earmarked as potential Ten Hag replacement at Man United

Intriguingly, incoming sporting director Dan Ashworth oversaw the process at Brighton which identified De Zerbi as the replacement for Graham Potter in 2022.

Ashworth, who is on gardening leave at Newcastle after agreeing to join the project at Man United, had left the Seagulls by the time of De Zerbi's appointment but was heavily involved in the process.

United are now identifying potential candidates to replace Ten Hag in the Old Trafford hot seat in case he leaves at the end of the season.

It is believed De Zerbi figures prominently on their shortlist following his good work in his first Premier League job at Brighton.

The Italian led the Seagulls to a sixth-place finish in the top flight last season and has led them to the Europa League knockout stages in the current campaign.

He has won 35 of his 75 games in charge at the Amex Stadium.

In other news, Man United to accept midfielder offer this summer.

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