Man Utd 'hold talks with Xavi' over replacing Erik ten Hag as four chiefs fly to Barcelona

Xavi has emerged as a potential target for Manchester United should the club opt to sack manager Erik ten Hag.

Contact has been made with the former Barcelona manager twice in the last few months, reports the Daily Mail, as the Old Trafford hierarchy face a decision following the club's poor start to the season. Four individuals, led by chief executive Omar Berrada, flew out to Barcelona last Thursday.

United sources though have been keen to underline that a number of high profile meetings have taken place in the Catalan city because co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe has been there to support Ineos Britannia sailing team in their battle with New Zealand for the America’s Cup.

Xavi has been out of work since leaving the Spanish giants in the summer. Whilst he was at the helm he led them to the La Liga title and is seen as one of a number of coaches who have been hugely influenced by Pep Guardiola, whom he played under for four years.

The Spaniard's availability would also appeal to the Manchester bosses, who considered a managerial change in the summer but felt there were a lack of quality coaches on the market. Xavi has had time to digest his Barcelona exit and may relish a fresh challenge.

Ten Hag survived a summer review into his job but has begun this season poorly. After overseeing United's worst ever Premier League season there has been little improvement with the Red Devils sat in the bottom half. Many of last year's issues also remain evident.

United's preference is to stick by their Dutch manager, who is preparing his team for a Europa League clash at Fenerbahce on Thursday. He oversaw the team's third win of the season on Saturday as they saw off Brentford, but already they've suffered embarrassing home losses at the hands of Liverpool and Tottenham.

Image: PA) PA)

Thomas Tuchel was seen as one of the most likely candidates to take over but the German has just been snapped up by the FA, who have appointed him as England manager. That has further limited the options for Ratcliffe and co.

Sporting Lisbon coach Ruben Amorim and former Borussia Dortmund boss Edin Terzic could come into contention if they do opt to move Ten Hag on. Although Amorim is being widely tipped to replace Guardiola at Manchester City, when he eventually moves on.

Join our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.

Click here to read article