Former Aston Villa striker Gabby Agbonlahor has urged Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe to demand significant control over transfers and squad decisions before considering a move to Manchester United.

Speaking during an interview, Agbonlahor said the Manchester United job would be an attractive opportunity for Howe but warned that the English coach should not accept the position without clear assurances from the club’s hierarchy.

Agbonlahor pointed to the level of control enjoyed by Aston Villa manager Unai Emery as an example of what Howe should seek if he were to take charge at Old Trafford.

“If I’m Eddie Howe, what a position I’m in. You definitely have to take the United job, I’m saying I’m taking it,” Agbonlahor said.

However, he stressed that Howe should insist on having a major say in recruitment and the future direction of the squad.

The former striker argued that the potential Manchester United manager should secure commitments from the club to strengthen the team during the January transfer window.

He also suggested that Howe would need the authority to make difficult decisions about underperforming players rather than being restricted by existing squad arrangements.

Agbonlahor warned that without such assurances, Howe should avoid taking the role, despite the prestige associated with managing one of England’s biggest clubs.

His comments come amid continuing discussions about Manchester United’s managerial direction and the challenges facing the club as it seeks to restore consistent performances.