Manchester United have reportedly reached a verbal agreement in principle with Mauricio Pochettino to become their new head coach, according to reports.

The move would see the former Southampton, Tottenham Hotspur, Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain boss return to the Premier League, with United hoping his experience can help revive the club’s fortunes.

Pochettino is currently the head coach of the United States national team and only signed a contract extension three months ago that would keep him in charge through to the 2030 FIFA World Cup.

Should he leave for Old Trafford, US Soccer would reportedly be entitled to compensation, with the 54-year-old understood to have a $10 million (£7.5 million) release clause in his contract.

Manchester United’s interest comes amid growing uncertainty over Michael Carrick’s position following the club’s difficult start to the season.

United have endured their worst start to a campaign in 40 years and are reportedly languishing near the Premier League relegation zone after an eight-match winless run.

Carrick, 45, was widely expected to lose his job in late October following a 3-0 home defeat to Bournemouth, but he remained in charge.

United subsequently suffered a 2-0 defeat away to Chelsea before producing a dramatic late 3-2 victory over Roma in the Champions League after initially falling two goals behind.

Despite the disappointing results, United supporters have largely remained behind Carrick, with much of the frustration directed towards the club’s ownership and the performances of the players.

Pochettino has previously been linked with the Manchester United job on several occasions and could now be set for a return to the Premier League.

The Argentine is scheduled to hold a press conference on Friday ahead of the United States’ CONCACAF Nations League quarter-final against Haiti, although the reported developments could now overshadow his media appearance.

United have the remainder of the international break to resolve the managerial situation before returning to action against bitter rivals Liverpool on 22 November.

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