Manchester United have reportedly made contact with the representatives of a manager who is available to replace Erik ten Hag if deemed necessary.
Heading into Saturday's FA Cup final, it was alleged that Ten Hag was highly likely to be removed from his position regardless of the result against Manchester City.
Despite the potential distractions, the Red Devils produced one of their most astute performances of the season to record a 2-1 victory over the Premier League champions.
After the showpiece occasion at Wembley Stadium, Ten Hag was defiant, insisting that he will 'go and win trophies elsewhere' if he is sacked as United boss.
As it stands, it has been widely reported that United's footballing operations hierarchy are currently conducting a end-of-season review to determine whether the Dutchman should start a third campaign at Old Trafford.
Nevertheless, given the available jobs that are currently on the market, United are seemingly taking steps to assess their options.
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Man United 'sound out' De Zerbi
According to The Guardian, United have made an effort to establish whether Roberto De Zerbi would be interested in replacing Ten Hag.
The Italian and Brighton & Hove Albion have just parted ways by mutual consent, freeing up the 44-year-old to take another position elsewhere.
If reports are to be believed, De Zerbi has been in the running for the vacant role at Chelsea, albeit with it now seeming that Leicester City's Enzo Maresca will get the nod.
There are positions in Italy that could interest De Zerbi, such as the ones at AC Milan and Bologna, the latter potentially becoming available if Thiago Motta moves to Juventus.
However, the belief is that De Zerbi's current preference is to remain in the Premier League having generally made a positive impression during his time at the Amex Stadium.
United are said to have made contact with the representatives of De Zerbi, with minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe allegedly a fan of his possession-based style of play.
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When are United likely to make a decision on Ten Hag?
The assumption is that they will decide on Ten Hag's future as soon as possible, with any decision that they make likely to divide opinion among the fanbase.
Despite United's worst-ever performance in the Premier League coming under the 54-year-old, United have now won two domestic trophies under his guidance.
Former Bayern Munich boss Thomas Tuchel and Brentford's Thomas Frank have also been linked with a move to United in recent weeks.
Darren Plant
