Former Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe is being linked with a return to the dugout just a few months after leaving Newcastle United

Former Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe could be set for a return to the Premier League, with Manchester United reportedly an admirer of the 48-year-old head coach.

Howe has been out of a job since he left St. James' Park three months ago, but could find himself back in the top flight if Michael Carrick loses his job at Old Trafford.

The former Magpies boss has long been admired by those in Manchester, and Fabrizio Romano claims that he's on a list of potential managers to replace Carrick.

Antonio Conte, Julian Nagelsmann and Brighton boss Fabian Hurzeler are also potential managerial targets for United, though the latter of the trio would require a fee to prise him away from the Seagulls.

Howe's availability could make him an attractive proposition, with other reports claiming Fulham are also keeping a close eye on the former Magpies boss.

TeamTALK claims Howe is a potential replacement for Alvaro Arbeloa if he is relieved of his duties, while also claiming the former Newcastle boss turned down an approach from Ligue 1 side RC Lens.

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Former Magpies' midfielder Chris Waddle believes it's a matter of time until Howe returns to management and will be ready to take on his next job.

Speaking to talkSPORT Bet, Waddle said: "Eddie Howe did a great job at Newcastle, let's be honest. That puts him in a good position while sitting on the fence waiting for the right job to come along.

"It's a matter of who presses the panic button first. He will be heavily linked because of what he achieved at Newcastle, and rightly so.

"He plays a nice brand of football, so a lot of teams will be looking at him and thinking about when to make that move. He won't be short of offers.

"He's probably enjoying a nice break at the minute, but after a few weeks, he's probably thinking he's ready to get back into it. It just depends on who presses the panic button first in the Premier League."