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Thomas Tuchel considered as Erik ten Hag replacement at Man Utd, Real Madrid line up William Saliba - Paper Round
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Updated 11/10/2024 at 06:48 GMT+1
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Manchester United may replace Erik ten Hag with former Chelsea, PSG and Bayern Munich boss Thomas Tuchel – but only if they can afford the Dutchman’s compensation package. Elsewhere, Arsenal defender William Saliba is linked with a summer transfer to Real Madrid, while there are claims that former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp agreed to join the Red Bull project as long ago as 2022.
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United consider Tuchel as replacement boss
Manchester United have discussed the possibility of replacing Erik ten Hag with Thomas Tuchel, according to the Independent.
The report claims that a recent meeting between the owner, Jim Ratcliffe, and his executive team saw the German mentioned.
The paper reports: “Sir Jim Ratcliffe requested Manchester United's football hierarchy put forward forensic cases for all potential scenarios on Erik ten Hag's future, to fortify the club's new approach as they met in London on Tuesday.
“It is understood there were considerable differences in positions, although one of the most debated was over what comes next should the club eventually decide to move on from the Dutch coach. There was still no announcement or official update as of Thursday afternoon, although Ten Hag's stance is understandably to proceed as normal once he returns from holiday, to prepare for the Brentford game.
“Thomas Tuchel was spoken of as the most likely successor should that position change, although those close to the German manager insist there has as of yet been no contact.”
Ten Hag compensation may pose problems
The Daily Mail reports that there could be some hesitation to sack Ten Hag despite recent results.
A compensation package of £14 million might be due to the manager, which could then affect United’s ability to operate in the transfer market.
The paper explains: “The Dutchman would pocket around £14 million if he is dismissed. This represents a large figure for any club, perhaps most of all the Red Devils, who do not have much wriggle room financially, given their PSR position.
“Ten Hag saw an extension triggered in his contract in the summer after the club had interviewed a number of candidates for the job, following their dismal showing [in] the league. His deal now runs to the end of the 2025-2026 season.
“Though Ten Hag appears to be safe for the time being, results will need to improve for him to see out the rest of the year, let alone the rest of the season."
Real keen on Saliba
Arsenal’s French international defender William Saliba is reportedly a top target for Spanish giants Real Madrid.
The centre-back is one of the best players in the Premier League and indispensable for Mikel Arteta’s side.
The Sun writes: “The Arsenal star, 23, is widely considered one of the best centre-backs in world football.
“His form for the Gunners has seen him cement himself as a regular in the starting XI for France.
“And now Los Blancos want to take him to the Bernabeu.
“Real Madrid are hoping to follow up the signing of Kylian Mbappe this year by adding his compatriot Saliba next summer.
“Real Madrid hope to test the player and the North London club's resolve by making an approach next year.
“In fact, it could take a world-record bid - surpassing the £85m Manchester United paid Leicester for Harry Maguire in 2019 - to sign Saliba.”
Red Bull agreed Klopp deal in 2022
There are claims that Jurgen Klopp had agreed to join Red Bull when he was still Liverpool manager.
In fact, reports state that the deal was reached in 2022, more than a year before he announced his decision to quit Anfield.
The Daily Star relays reports in Germany, stating: “Former Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp allegedly agreed to become Red Bull's Head of Global Soccer back in 2022 whilst he was still in charge of the Reds.
“At the beginning of the year, Klopp announced his intentions to step down from his post at Liverpool, citing burnout. But he now has a new job. On Wednesday, it was confirmed Klopp is to become Red Bull's new Head of Global Football. He will start the role in January 2025.
“In his new role, Klopp ‘will oversee Red Bull's international network of soccer clubs’ which includes RB Leipzig, FC Red Bull Salzburg and New York Red Bulls. They are also a shareholder in Leeds United after having purchased a minority stake in the club prior to the beginning of the 2024/25 season."
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