Potential Erik ten Hag replacement to 'reject' Saudi Pro League offer amid Man Utd 'interest'

Erik ten Hag remains under huge pressure at Manchester United despite a recent improvement in results at Old Trafford.

United are still down in sixth in the Premier League despite winning four of their last five league matches, including a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Luton Town on Saturday.

The disappointing start to the campaign, which has featured heavy defeats to Manchester City and Newcastle, has brought sharp focus on Ten Hag and his suitability as manager.

His decision to banish Jadon Sancho from the squad has also proved to be problematic, with the Daily Star claiming Sir Jim Ratcliffe will 'order' Ten Hag to end his feud with the winger – once he completes his 25 per cent purchase of the club.

Ten Hag is reported to retain the support of United's hierarchy, however, with Ratcliffe also believing he is the right man for the job.

But that may change, should United continue to struggle after the international break.

Ten Hag is currently second-favourite with bookmakers - behind Sheffield United's Paul Heckingbottom - to be the first Premier League boss to be sacked this season.

One manager who has been touted as a potential replacement for the Dutchman, is former Wolves and Real Madrid manager Julen Lopetegui.

Spanish newspaper AS (via TeamTalk) claim United view Lopetegui as an option should the club decide to part ways with Ten Hag.

The former Spain manager, 57, has also been linked with a move to Saudi Pro League club Al Ittihad, who recently sacked another former Wolves boss in Nuno Espirito Santo.

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But transfer expert Fabrizio Romano claims Lopetegui is planning to turn down the Saudi club, with a return to the Premier League his preference.

"Understand Julen Lopetegui is now oriented to reject Al Ittihad proposal to become the new manager and replace Nuno Espirito Santo," posted Romano.

"Former Sevilla and Wolves coach set to turn down the proposal - told his focus is on Premier League."

Topics: Football, Julen Lopetegui, Manchester United, Premier League, Saudi Pro League, Erik Ten Hag

Rory O'Callaghan

Rory O'Callaghan is Editorial Lead at SPORTbible. He has previously worked for Sky Sports News, MailOnline and Reach covering football, cricket, boxing and MMA. Tested daily as a Liverpool fan in a Manchester office.

@rory_ocallaghan