Manchester United are closing in on appointing Argentine manager Mauricio Pochettino as their next head coach, with the Premier League giants expected to pay the United States Soccer Federation (USSF) a reported $10 million to secure his release.

Pochettino has emerged as the leading candidate to replace Michael Carrick, whose position at Old Trafford has come under serious pressure following Manchester United’s poor start to the 2026/27 Premier League campaign.

According to reports from ESPN and The Athletic, United have opened discussions with Pochettino’s representatives and are working towards an agreement with the 54-year-old, who currently coaches the United States men’s national team.

The Argentine coach’s proposed move could cost United more than the initial release fee, with ESPN reporting that the club would need an additional $2 million to bring his trusted coaching staff, including long-time assistant Jesús Pérez, to England.

Pochettino signed a new four-year contract with the US Soccer Federation in August 2026, extending his commitment to the national team until 2030. However, his agreement reportedly contains a $10 million release clause that allows him to leave for a major European club.

Despite progress in negotiations, Pochettino’s appointment is not yet officially confirmed. United have made contact with the American federation, while Michael Carrick is expected to meet club executives over his future.

Pochettino has previous Premier League experience with Southampton, Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea, and has also managed Paris Saint-Germain.

His potential return to England would mark another major managerial appointment at Old Trafford as United seek to address their disappointing campaign.