Man Utd ‘negotiating’ to replace Ten Hag with Barcelona great, who ‘requests’ one January signing

Manchester United is reportedly in talks with Barcelona legend Xavi as they consider replacing current manager Erik ten Hag. Following a frustrating 0-0 draw against Aston Villa, United heads into the international break winless in their last five matches across all competitions.

The club has secured only three victories this season, resulting in their lowest points tally after seven league games since the 1989-90 campaign, with just eight points. Ten Hag is under significant pressure, though he believes he retains the support of the club’s hierarchy, who will convene for a scheduled monthly meeting on Tuesday.

Former Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel is currently the frontrunner for the job, with several other candidates such as Eddie Howe, Thomas Frank, Gareth Southgate, and Max Allegri also being mentioned. Recent reports from Spain indicate that Xavi’s name has gained traction, and negotiations with the ex-Barcelona manager have begun.

Xavi is reportedly eager to make a move to the Premier League and to a club with such rich history. If appointed, he already has a target for the January transfer window: Barcelona midfielder Fermin Lopez. Xavi views Lopez as essential for United and is prepared to advocate for a substantial investment to secure his signature, potentially exceeding €40 million (£33.5 million).

Former United striker Andy Cole weighed in on Ten Hag’s situation, suggesting that the manager shouldn’t bear the entire blame for the club’s struggles this season. Cole stated, “The players are the ones that have to go out there and win football matches.” He emphasized that Ten Hag’s past successes in winning two cups in his first two seasons should not be overlooked.

Cole expressed concern over the potential consequences of frequent managerial changes, stating, “Winning two cups in two seasons isn’t easy to do.” He highlighted that great managers often need time to establish themselves, referencing Sir Alex Ferguson’s initial struggles at the club.

With uncertainty surrounding Ten Hag’s future, the focus now shifts to whether United will opt for a change at the helm during the upcoming international break.

Manchester United finds itself at a critical juncture as speculation mounts over Erik ten Hag’s future following a poor run of form. The club’s winless streak in their last five matches, compounded by their lowest points tally after seven games since 1989, has raised doubts about Ten Hag’s ability to steer the team forward. Despite winning two cups in his first two seasons, the Dutch manager is under mounting pressure, and talks of potential replacements are intensifying.

Several high-profile names have emerged as candidates, including former Chelsea boss Thomas Tuchel, who is reportedly the frontrunner, and other managers such as Eddie Howe, Gareth Southgate, and Max Allegri. However, reports from Spain suggest that negotiations have begun with Barcelona legend Xavi, who is seen as an exciting prospect for the club. Xavi is rumored to be interested in a Premier League move and has already identified Barcelona midfielder Fermin Lopez as a key January transfer target, should he take over. Xavi sees Lopez as pivotal to revitalizing United’s midfield, with a potential transfer fee of €40 million being discussed.

Former United striker Andy Cole has called for patience, urging the club to avoid hasty decisions and highlighting Ten Hag’s success in securing two trophies in his first two seasons. Cole pointed out that managerial stability is crucial, referencing Sir Alex Ferguson’s early struggles at United before his eventual triumphs.

As the international break approaches, the club’s leadership faces a difficult decision: whether to stick with Ten Hag in hopes of a turnaround or to make a managerial change and bring in a new face like Xavi to lead the team forward.