Man Utd succession talk swirls as Arsenal eye January moves
Reports link Manchester United with several managerial candidates should Michael Carrick leave, while Arsenal track Alex Baena and Gustavo Varela ahead of the January window.
Manchester United's managerial situation is generating widespread speculation, with multiple reports suggesting the club has drawn up a list of potential replacements for Michael Carrick. Among the names mentioned are former Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe, former Bayern Munich and Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann, Aston Villa manager Unai Emery and former Chelsea and Tottenham manager Antonio Conte.
According to the reports, United technical director Jason Wilcox appears to favour Howe, while Nagelsmann is said to be keen on the role. Emery is described as one of the club's dream candidates, and United have reportedly opened talks with Conte about a possible return to the Premier League. The same reports also note that prising Fabian Hurzeler from Brighton would likely require a world record fee, although Hurzeler is said to have no interest in the position.
The volume of names reflects the uncertainty around Carrick's position rather than any confirmed decision, and all of the links stem from media reports of varying reliability, including subscription and Italian-language sources. No appointment or departure has been confirmed.
Elsewhere, Arsenal are reportedly targeting Atletico Madrid and Spain winger Alex Baena, 25, in the January window. The club is also said to be monitoring Monza striker Gustavo Varela, 21, with Napoli and Benfica also interested in the Portuguese player.
In Italy, reports suggest Brazil defender Gleison Bremer is wanted by Bayer Leverkusen and could leave Juventus in January.
