Spurs threaten to snatch De Zerbi from United as Carrick's stock rises despite managerial uncertainty

Manchester United face a potential battle to land one of their top managerial targets, with Tottenham preparing to make their move for Roberto De Zerbi following Igor Tudor's disastrous start in north London.

Tudor has lost all three of his opening matches as interim boss at Spurs, creating an opening for De Zerbi to potentially switch allegiances before United can secure him on a permanent basis. The Italian tactician sits high on United's list of preferred external candidates, but Tottenham's willingness to move quickly could complicate matters for the Red Devils.

The situation represents a curious twist in United's managerial search. Michael Carrick has transformed the club's fortunes since replacing Ruben Amorim in January, compiling a record of six wins, one draw and one defeat across his first eight matches. That run has propelled United to third in the Premier League table and sent supporters' dreams of Champions League football soaring once more.

Yet despite this remarkable turnaround, Carrick remains far from certain to land the job permanently. According to reports, De Zerbi, Julian Nagelsmann and Roberto Martinez are all being actively discussed at boardroom level as potential candidates. Mauricio Pochettino and Kieran McKenna continue to attract appreciation, though neither is expected to emerge as a frontrunner.

The timing matters considerably. United are keen to appoint their next manager before the World Cup begins on June 11, but Nagelsmann and Martinez both carry World Cup commitments with Germany and Portugal respectively. De Zerbi, unencumbered by such obligations, represents the obvious choice—provided Spurs don't beat them to it.

Should Tudor's form deteriorate further, Tottenham could be forced into an earlier permanent appointment than anticipated, with De Zerbi apparently ready to sit down for face-to-face discussions with the north London club.

For all the uncertainty swirling around, Wes Brown believes Carrick deserves serious consideration for the permanent post. The former United defender argues there is genuine merit in continuity, particularly given Carrick's intimate knowledge of the club and his success in restoring player morale and performance levels.

"If something is working, why change it?" Brown reasoned, acknowledging that while Carrick was initially brought in as a temporary solution, his results have thrust him into genuine contention. Brown points out that United have previously pursued marquee names only to see them flounder, making Carrick's familiarity with the club's culture and expectations a significant advantage.

The ex-defender also notes that Carrick's relative lack of previous managerial pedigree—once viewed as a potential stumbling block—now carries less weight given his impressive early returns. Whether INEOS and Sir Jim Ratcliffe ultimately stick with their interim appointment or pursue one of the other candidates remains to be seen, but De Zerbi's availability could soon become a moot point if Spurs move decisively.