According to a report by Metro on Friday, October 23, 2026, Antonio Conte has reportedly held discussions with Manchester United about replacing Michael Carrick as manager but has outlined two major conditions that must be met before he agrees to take charge at Old Trafford.

Carrick is facing mounting pressure following Manchester United’s disappointing start to the season, with the club managing just two victories in their opening 11 matches across all competitions.

United’s heavy 4-0 defeat to Como in the Champions League on Wednesday night has further increased speculation about Carrick’s future. However, the 45-year-old is expected to remain in charge for Sunday’s Premier League encounter against Bournemouth.

According to Italian newspaper La Repubblica, Conte is willing to consider a return to English football and has reportedly held talks with senior Manchester United officials regarding the possibility of becoming the club’s next manager.

The report claims that the former Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur boss wants full authority over transfer decisions. This would allow him to reshape United’s squad during the January transfer window and the following summer.

Conte also reportedly wants the freedom to decide which players fit into his tactical plans and which members of the current squad should be allowed to leave. Additionally, the Italian manager is keen to bring his own trusted coaching staff to Old Trafford if he accepts the job.

However, financial demands could present a significant obstacle to Manchester United’s pursuit of the experienced tactician. According to The Times, Conte could demand an annual salary exceeding £10 million, potentially making negotiations more complicated.

United’s leadership are also reportedly concerned about Conte’s fiery temperament, which contributed to tensions during his previous managerial spells at Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur.

Nevertheless, his impressive record of winning major trophies continues to make him an appealing candidate. Conte guided Chelsea to the Premier League title during his first season at Stamford Bridge and also won Serie A in his debut campaigns with Juventus and Napoli.

Meanwhile, Manchester United are reportedly exploring other managerial options as they consider possible replacements for Carrick. Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe and former Bayern Munich and Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann are among the names being considered.

Unai Emery and Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler are also believed to be admired by the club’s hierarchy, although securing either manager could involve substantial compensation.

For now, Carrick is expected to remain in the dugout for Manchester United’s meeting with Bournemouth. The result could prove significant as the club evaluates its next steps amid growing uncertainty surrounding the manager’s position at Old Trafford.