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Manchester United’s hunt for a new head coach has taken a sharp twist, with Roberto De Zerbi, one of the club’s primary targets, now in line for a bombshell return to England – but it may not be to Old Trafford.

Taking their time

INEOS are prepared to wait until the summer before settling on a long-term successor to Ruben Amorim, who was sacked after an explosive fallout with sporting director Jason Wilcox last month.

Michael Carrick was handed the reins as caretaker until the end of the season, when the pool of candidates will grow. The former midfielder has picked up 13 points from a possible 15 in his first five games at the helm, propelling United into the top four and firmly within reach of Champions League qualification.

Carrick is understood to be seen as an interim option, with more experienced candidates, including De Zerbi, at the top of United’s list. This includes Thomas Tuchel, Carlo Ancelotti, and Mauricio Pochettino, who may all be available after the World Cup in North America finishes this summer.

However, Gary Neville revealed he has held conversations with the club which indicate Carrick could put himself forward for the...