Mauricio Pochettino would rather return to Tottenham than take the vacant job at Manchester United, according to reports.
The Argentine has long been touted as Old Trafford bosses’ top target to be appointed as Ole Gunnar Solskjaer ’s permanent successor this summer.
Having tried to hire him in the wake of Jose Mourinho ’s departure in 2018, United are set to renew their interest this time around.
Currently with Paris Saint-Germain, there is a belief that if he fails to lift the Champions League, he could be dismissed by the French giants.
United’s football director John Murtough has confirmed the process to name a new head coach is underway, with an announcement expected ahead of the summer window.
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"We know that consistency is key as we strive for a top-four finish this season," Murtough said earlier this week.
"I want to reiterate however that this is not the ultimate objective for Manchester United, and everyone at the club is focused on challenging for the top trophies.
"We are now conducting a thorough process for the appointment of a new permanent manager who will take charge this summer, with the objective to get us back to challenging for those domestic and European titles."
However, despite Pochettino being United’s preferred candidate, talkSPORT claim that he would prioritise an emotional return to Spurs.
Pochettino was sacked by the north London club back in 2019, having guided the club to the Champions League final during his first stint at the club.
The report suggests that the 50-year-old retains a good relationship with chairman Daniel Levy, with the latter attempting to bring him back to the club prior to Nuno Espirito Santo’s ill-fated reign.
Following Nuno’s dismissal, Spurs lured Antonio Conte to the club, but his outbursts following recent results have left his position in an uncertain position.
“The club has to make an assessment,” he said after defeat to Burnley. “The players are always the same, the club changes the coaches, the players are the same, but the result doesn't change. I'm too honest to accept this type of situation."
Conte is adamant he won’t throw in the towel at Spurs, but is already the favourite to be the next Premier League manager to leave his post.
Should that happen, Pochettino could be back in the frame, having admitted that he has unfinished business with his old team.
Speaking to BT Sport in 2020, he said: "Before I die I want to manage Tottenham and try to win one title!
"It will be an opportunity to pay back fans for all the love they showed us.
"From the day that I left the club, my dream is to one day be back and finish the work we didn't finish...
"Deep inside I would like one day to be back, this club is special."
Meanwhile, United remain on the lookout for a new boss, with Ajax’s Erik ten Hag, Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti and Spain head coach Luis Enrique also said to be in the running.
