Antonio Conte would be open to replacing Michael Carrick as Man Utd manager in mid-season if the club decides to make a change, according to Fabrizio Romano.

The Red Devils made it five games without a win in midweek as they fell to a 2-0 defeat to Atletico Madrid in the Champions League, with Carrick having overseen just two victories in all competitions this season against newly-promoted Ipswich Town and Azerbaijani outfit Sabah.

That has seen major pressure poured onto his role as boss, with many believing he should never have been given the job permanently despite his excellent interim spell last season.

GIVEMESPORT sources understand that the former midfielder is currently safe, with INEOS believing he can turn things around at Old Trafford. However, that hasn't prevented speculation that they are looking for potential alternatives, with former Chelsea and Juventus boss Antonio Conte heavily linked with a return to the Premier League.

The Italian is reportedly close to agreeing to move to Old Trafford, and in his most recent YouTube video, the ever-reliable Romano said the coach would be open to taking over mid-season, although nothing is close at this stage.

"What I can tell you is that the only answer I can give you today is that there is still nothing advanced, concrete, or serious between Conte and Manchester United," he said.

"What I can tell you is that probably the biggest story in the story regarding Antonio Conte is that compared to other situations in the past, when Antonio Conte always wanted to wait for a new season, have the preseason, have his own squad. In this case, Antonio Conte would be open this year. In general, this is not just for Man United.

"Antonio Conte would be open to taking a job mid-season. So whether it's Man United, or something in Italy, or different opportunities, Antonio Conte, if it's an historical club, because he doesn't want to go to the Middle East, just get the money, and go back to Europe in a few years.

"His idea is to continue in Europe. Historical club. Conte said in an interview a few days ago. He said, "If there is a club with big history who want to go back to their little, I would be open. So Antonio Conte is for sure open to these opportunities. Now let's see if it's going to be again Man United, if Carrick goes, or an Italian club, or any surprise."

Fabian Hurzeler a 'Leading Candidate'

While Conte has been heavily linked, there are some doubts from fans that the five-time Serie A winner and former Premier League champion is the right man for the job.

His explosive style and confrontational attitude rarely sees him time at clubs end well, and that has seen speculation that Brighton boss Fabian Hurzeler is considered to be a leading candidate to replace Carrick should the decision be made to replace him.

The German coach is currently in charge of Brighton, but has impressed with his style of football and coaching abilities, but it remains to be seen if United would be able to convince him or Brighton to make the switch a reality.