Manchester United have reportedly approached Ajax manager Erik Ten Hag, exploring a potential move in the summer.
According to journalist Jonathan Shrager, Manchester United have initiated contact with Erik Ten Hag, asking about his current situation at Ajax. It appears the Premier League giants are keen on securing the services of the Ajax manager in the summer as they look for an ideal replacement for Ralf Rangnick.
Manchester United’s footballing director John Murtough recently lifted the lid on the club’s extensive search for a new manager. Erik Ten Hag, to that end, has emerged as one of the top options, having enjoyed stellar success since taking over Ajax in December 2017.
During his ongoing four-year spell at the club, Ten Hag has guided Ajax to a couple of Eredivisie titles and is well on his way to a third. But perhaps most significantly, he was the brains behind Ajax’s sensational Champions League campaign in 2018/19, when they were able to reach the semi-finals, only to be beaten by Tottenham.
While the Dutchman has denied the opportunities to leave Ajax in the past, there is a growing belief that the tactician may soon put an end to his spell in Amsterdam in the summer, especially following the sudden exit of Marc Overmars with whom he had a close relationship.
Erik Ten Hag’s uncertain situation at Ajax has put Manchester United on alert. As mentioned earlier, the Red Devils are currently in the market for new managers as Rangnick is expected to quit and take up the consultancy role for two years. It will create a void in the managerial berth, with the club scouring through multiple options across Europe.
Mauricio Pochettino, for one, has emerged as one of the top targets due to his strong track record in the Premier League. However, many believe the Argentine has lost his charm and is likely to be sacked by PSG at the end of the season, thus renewing doubts over his potential appointment.
It has compelled Manchester United to consider Ten Hag as an ideal alternative. The Dutchman has enjoyed immense success at Ajax and may offer the club some much-needed structure and identity. He could be an easier target as well, given that Pochettino is set to be courted by Real Madrid, who are contemplating sacking Carlo Ancelotti at the end of the season.