Antonio Conte has reportedly held talks with Manchester United over the possibility of replacing Michael Carrick, but the Italian tactician is said to have established two major conditions that must be met before he considers taking charge at Old Trafford.

Carrick’s position has come under increasing scrutiny following United’s disappointing 4-0 Champions League defeat to Como on Wednesday. The result has intensified concerns about the club’s poor start to the campaign and raised further questions about the manager’s ability to turn the situation around.

Manchester United have recorded just two victories in 11 matches across all competitions this season, leaving the team under pressure to improve quickly. Carrick is expected to remain in charge for Sunday’s Premier League fixture against Bournemouth, although another disappointing performance could further jeopardise his future.

According to Italian newspaper La Repubblica, Conte is interested in returning to English football and has communicated his expectations during discussions with senior United officials earlier this week. The former Chelsea and Tottenham manager is understood to be willing to consider the opportunity if the club agrees to his demands.

His first reported condition centres on recruitment, with Conte seeking substantial control over transfer decisions. He reportedly wants the authority to identify and pursue players capable of improving the squad during the January transfer window and next summer. Such influence would allow him to shape the team according to his preferred tactical approach.

The second demand concerns the existing squad. Conte is said to want a decisive role in determining which players remain part of his plans and which should be allowed to leave. He would also reportedly expect members of his trusted coaching team to join him at Old Trafford.

Conte’s previous achievements in England could strengthen his appeal to United’s hierarchy. During his first season at Chelsea, he guided the London club to the Premier League title in 2017, demonstrating his ability to implement an effective system and deliver immediate success.

However, financial considerations could complicate any potential appointment. The Times reports that Conte’s annual salary expectations exceed £10 million, a figure that could become a significant obstacle as United assess their managerial options.

There are also reportedly concerns within the club’s leadership about Conte’s demanding personality and intense management style. His previous spells at Chelsea and Tottenham included periods of tension, prompting questions about whether his approach would fit Manchester United’s long-term ambitions and existing structure.

Nevertheless, Conte’s record remains impressive. He won Serie A with Juventus during his first season at the club and repeated the achievement in his opening campaign with Napoli, reinforcing his reputation as a manager capable of producing rapid results.

United are also assessing alternative candidates, including former Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe and Julian Nagelsmann, who has previously managed Bayern Munich and coached Germany’s national team.

Aston Villa manager Unai Emery and Brighton boss Fabian Hurzeler are also reportedly admired by the club. However, pursuing either appointment could prove costly, as their current employers may demand substantial compensation before agreeing to release them.

With Carrick under pressure, United must weigh Conte’s experience and trophy-winning record against his financial demands and preferred level of control before deciding on their next managerial move.