Insider: Carrick on alert as top Man Utd managerial candidate holds ‘positive contract talks

Manchester United head coach Michael Carrick is edging ever closer towards confirmation following the latest Luis Enrique update.In January, the Red Devils appointed their former midfielder as interim manager until the end of the season after sacking Ruben Amorim.DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL STRETTY NEWS APP FOR ALL THE LATEST UPDATES & BREAKING NEWS – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAYThe 44-year-old has been delivering the goods since taking over, winning seven, drawing two, and only losing one of his first 10 matches in charge.Luis Enrique unlikely to join Man Utd after ‘positive’ PSG talksDespite Carrick’s sensational start, his fate remains undecided, with several other names thrown in the hat.At this stage, the consensus at Man Utd is that the hierarchy doesn’t want to rush into making a decision, preferring to wait until the end of the season. It is also believed that INEOS would consider the possibility of bringing in a top-notch tactician with a big resume.But as reported earlier this week, Carlo Ancelotti and Thomas Tuchel have reportedly pulled out. The German manager has already renewed his contract with England, while the Italian is expected to follow suit after expressing his desire to remain at the helm of the Brazilian national team beyond the World Cup.That development was considered a good double boost for Carrick and his chances of earning a permanent contract at Man UtdThe Manchester native has now received another piece of good news, as Carrington insider Sully reveals that Luis Enrique, who is high on the club’s shortlist, is in favour of prolonging his stay at Paris Saint-Germain.The journalist adds that the European champions are making progress in their contract talks with the Spanish manager, whose deal is valid until June 2027.“Luis Enrique is understood to be happy at PSG and has held positive talks in recent days over a contract extension,” posted Sully on his X account.“Enrique was highly rated internally at #MUFC which means another top candidate is ruled out for the head coach role. Michael Carrick is being seriously considered.” Luis Enrique is understood to be happy at PSG and has held positive talks in recent days over a contract extension. Enrique was highly rated internally at #MUFC which means another top candidate is ruled out for the head coach role. Michael Carrick is being seriously considered. — Sully (@SullyTalkz) March 26, 2026Why Michael Carrick is now the favourite for Man Utd permanent roleWhile we shouldn’t expect any confirmations in the coming days and weeks, the writing is already on the wall, as Carrick appears to be the heavy favourite to land the permanent role.The 44-year-old is doing his part, claiming positive results on his way towards an incresingly likely Champions League qualification.Moreover, with no so-called ‘world-class’ managers available at the moment, entrusting Carrick appears to be the hierarchy’s safest bet, at least based on the early evidence.It also resonates with some of the club’s former stars have argued in recent weeks, with the likes of Wayne Rooney and Michael Owen urging the United officials to confirm Carrick already.