Manchester United have regularly been mentioned as a candidate to land Antonio Conte, who is now looking closely at another opportunity.
Sport Witness have tracked reports in Italy which have been certain that a move to Old Trafford is gathering pace for the Italian. The former Napoli and Tottenham manager has appeared keen on the move, having left the Naples club at the end of last season.
There have also been suggestions of initial contact having been made between the parties. This has left him in pole position to become the next Manchester United manager, if Michael Carrick departs.
But now, Conte could see another chance open up elsewhere.
Juventus struggling
Tuttomercatoweb look at how Juventus fell flat in their 3-0 loss to Lazio on Sunday. It was their worst performance under Luciano Spalletti, with the Bianconeri now eight points off the top of the table.
The outlet further indicate that Conte could soon become an option for the Old Lady. It is noted that while there have been suggestions of him heading to Manchester United, the move ‘never materialised’, at least so far.
Juve are a key reason behind it. Conte has been ‘alerted’ by club officials after their draw in Cagliari last weekend. He is keen on taking over at a club as soon as he can.
Another report from TMW says that the Italian’s shadow now ‘looms large’ in Turin, with uncertainty growing around Spalletti.
Conte’s connection to the club remains strong even now. if Spalletti is axed, the ex-Napoli boss will be a major candidate to replace him.
Our take: Red Devils likely being used
Conte is clearly desperate for a new job and this is leading to leaks around both Manchester United and Juventus. He would be interested in both jobs because of the stature of the clubs, but whether they move for him remains to be seen.
For the Red Devils, hiring the Italian would be a huge risk. Conte usually needs an entire pre-season to get his players ready and it sets the tempo for his tenure. It makes sure the players are ready for his system from a physical perspective too.
That is why hiring him mid-season is a huge gamble and Manchester United currently need guarantees over results.
