Carrick Set to Stay as United Eye Dewsbury-Hall; Rashford Barcelona Move 'Will Get Done'

Manchester United look set to hand Michael Carrick the permanent managerial role, with the interim boss having impressed during his spell in charge at Old Trafford. The club hierarchy appear convinced enough by his credentials to make the appointment permanent, particularly if Champions League football returns to the Theatre of Dreams this season.

Carrick's credentials are solid on paper. He's won seven of his ten Premier League matches since stepping into the breach, a record that has substantially brightened United's prospects of finishing in the top four. Securing that fourth-place spot would almost certainly seal his appointment as full-time boss, making it difficult for the United board to look elsewhere.

The manager is already planning for the summer window, having identified his midfield targets. According to reports, Carrick has requested that United move for Everton's Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall in a deal valued around £50m. The midfielder has flourished at Goodison Park following his move from Chelsea last summer and represents the sort of depth the Red Devils are seeking.

United are expected to recruit at least two midfielders during the off-season and bolster their squad in other areas too. To fund these activities, the club will need to shift players out the exit door, with several names potentially available.

Marcus Rashford sits among those who could generate significant funds. Barcelona have been monitoring the England international, though negotiations have hit a snag over the Spanish club's reluctance to meet United's £26m asking price this summer.

However, sources insist the deal remains on track to completion. Barcelona prefer to negotiate a loan arrangement with a subsequent purchase option rather than fork out the full fee immediately, a position driven by their well-documented financial constraints. Despite these complications, the consensus suggests the transfer will ultimately be wrapped up, with Joan Laporta's re-election as Barcelona president and Hansi Flick's enthusiasm for keeping Rashford both working in the player's favour.