Manchester United have initiated discussions with external candidates in their hunt for a temporary boss to guide the club through the remainder of the campaign following Ruben Amorim's departure.
Jason Wilcox, the club's director of football, is spearheading the recruitment process and has already reached out informally to two former Old Trafford heroes.
Sky Sports News reports that both Michael Carrick and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer have been approached about potentially stepping in until the season concludes.
Current caretaker Darren Fletcher also remains under consideration for the role, though additional candidates are expected to be contacted before any final decision is reached.
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The preliminary conversations with Carrick and Solskjaer centre on their familiarity with the club, making them attractive options for a short-term appointment.
Both former players are viewed as strong possibilities given their deep understanding of the Old Trafford environment and its unique demands.
Crucially, neither man is currently employed, meaning United would not need to pay any compensation to secure their services.
Manchester United have held talks with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and Michael Carrick over a potential return to Old Trafford
|GETTY
While the primary objective remains finding an interim solution until May, the club has not entirely dismissed the prospect of making a permanent appointment should the ideal candidate emerge.
For any longer-term hire, United are understood to be casting their net considerably wider in terms of potential options.
Wilcox is set to progress to more formal interviews following these initial discussions, with a recommendation expected within the coming days.
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Ruben Amorim was sacked by United on Monday and received a huge pay-off | REUTERSAlthough no official deadline has been established, those in charge at Old Trafford are keen to have a new appointment confirmed ahead of the Manchester derby on January 17.
In the meantime, Fletcher will continue in his caretaker capacity for United's next two fixtures.
The Scot will lead the side when they face Burnley in the Premier League on Wednesday evening.
He will also remain at the helm for Sunday's FA Cup encounter against Brighton before any permanent interim arrangement is finalised.
Fletcher himself is being considered for the interim position, though United's leadership view him as a more promising prospect for the future given his current lack of senior coaching experience.
Darren Fletcher will take charge of Manchester United on an interim basis following the departure of Ruben Amorim | GETTYDespite this, the former midfielder has made a strong early impression on the playing squad.
Reports indicate Fletcher has maintained close relationships with the players, and the group has responded positively to his initial work with them.
Morale within the camp is described as being relatively high under his temporary stewardship.
Once Wilcox has completed his assessment and formulated his recommendation, the ultimate decision on who takes charge will require approval from Sir Jim Ratcliffe.