Multiple Italian reports suggest Antonio Conte has given the all-clear to accepting the Manchester United job, but Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s future is yet to be decided.
There had not been contact between the club and the Italian tactician until this evening, at which point Sportitalia and Sky Sport Italia both reported negotiations had begun.
They are still at a very early stage, but the crucial information given by Alfredo Pedullà and Gianluca Di Marzio is that Conte is willing to take over at Manchester United mid-season.
He would usually resist the idea of accepting such a role, but the former Inter, Chelsea, Italy and Juventus boss believes he can turn things around.
However, despite the 5-0 Premier League home defeat to Liverpool, Manchester United owners the Glazers have not yet decided whether to sack Solskjaer.
His position remains relatively popular with the supporters, who remember his glory days at Old Trafford as a player.
Should they opt to fire Solskjaer, then Conte is in pole position.
According to Sportitalia, a three-year contract is discussed, worth €12m per season.