Man Utd 'reach verbal agreement' with Pochettino to replace Carrick

Manchester United has entered discussions with former Argentina defender Mauricio Pochettino regarding the possibility of replacing Michael Carrick as their manager, according to reports from the BBC and other British media outlets. The position of Carrick at Old Trafford has been a topic of intense speculation following the club's worst start to a season in 40 years, as they currently find themselves in the relegation zone after an eight-match winless run.

Carrick remains in his current role, but it is believed that his future will be determined during a meeting with influential shareholder Jim Ratcliffe, chief executive Omar Berrada, and director of football Jason Wilcox in Monaco on Wednesday. Berrada and Wilcox are reportedly in favor of dismissing Carrick. Pochettino has experience in the Premier League, having previously managed Southampton, Tottenham, and Chelsea.

United have previously spoken to the former Argentina defender about the managerial position on three prior occasions, but only recently extended his contract with the U.S. through the 2030 World Cup. Pochettino is protected by a US$10 million release clause in his contract, and any move to Manchester United would require compensation.

Carrick's turbulent tenure at United came to light after he was seen arriving at the club's Carrington training ground on Wednesday, but it appears that his time at the club may be drawing to a close. Carrick has struggled to maintain discipline among his squad, including dropping captain Bruno Fernandes and axing Lisandro Martinez for criticizing the club's hierarchy for their lack of top-quality signings.

With the club set to return to action against Liverpool on November 22, United has time to resolve the managerial situation before then.