Thiago Motta: Setback for Man United as managerial target agrees deal in principle with Juventus – Man United News And Transfer News

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One of Manchester United’s managerial targets, Bologna’s Thiago Motta, has reportedly agreed a deal in principle with Juventus to join them after the current season ends.

A previous report covered by The Peoples Person relayed that Motta was a surprise candidate being considered by Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS to potentially replace Erik ten Hag.

Ten Hag’s long-term future at United is far from secure due to the extremely underwhelming campaign the club has endured.

A top-four finish seems to be an almost impossible task at the moment. United were also knocked out of Europe and the Carabao Cup earlier in the season. Ten Hag and his players’ only chance of somewhat regaining some pride is to lift the FA Cup at Wembley.

Alongside Motta, the Red Devils have been linked to plenty of other top coaches including Gareth Southgate, Zinedine Zidane, Graham Potter, Gary O’Neil, Thomas Frank, Carlo Ancelotti, Julian Nagelsmann and Roberto De Zerbi.

It was relayed that Bologna want to keep Motta amidst interest in his services from United and other interested parties.

The former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain midfielder has done wonders at the Serie A outfit. The Rossoblu side are on course for Champions League qualification owing to a fantastic 2023/24 season that has seen them amass 58 points from 31 matches to sit fourth in the standings.

Bologna are currently above clubs like Roma, reigning champions Napoli and Lazio. They’re also just four points adrift of Juventus.

According to Calciomercato, Juventus are one step closer to beating all other suitors like United to Motta’s signature.

Current boss Massimiliano Allegri is set to part ways with the Old Lady at the end of the season and Juve bosses are eager for a fresh face to occupy the Turin dugout.

It’s understood that the Bianconeri are impressed by Motta’s tactical acumen and his burgeoning reputation as one of football’s finest up-and-coming coaches.

Calciomercato state, “The contacts between Giuntoli and Thiago Motta’s entourage have been going on for several weeks and have led to a turning point: there is already an agreement in principle between the parties.”

This development almost likely spells the end of United’s pursuit of the 41-year-old coach. Ratcliffe and INEOS may have to look elsewhere if they still intend on sacking Ten Hag and starting the new era on a clean slate.

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