According to a report by Metro on October 23, 2026, Antonio Conte has reportedly made two major demands to Manchester United as he considers replacing Michael Carrick as the club’s head coach.

The Italian manager has emerged as a potential candidate to take charge at Old Trafford amid growing concerns over United’s poor start to the 2026/27 campaign. According to reports from Italy, Conte has held discussions with senior figures at the club and outlined the conditions he would expect United to meet before accepting the position.

Carrick is facing increasing pressure following Manchester United’s disappointing results this season. The club suffered a 4-0 defeat away to Como in the Champions League on Wednesday night, leaving them with just two victories in 11 matches across all competitions since the start of the campaign.

Despite the mounting speculation surrounding his future, Carrick is expected to remain in charge for Sunday’s Premier League meeting with Bournemouth. However, another disappointing performance could intensify calls for a change in the dugout.

According to Italian newspaper La Repubblica, Conte is open to returning to English football but wants significant control over Manchester United’s transfer strategy.

His first demand is reportedly to receive complete freedom in the transfer market. The former Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur manager wants the authority to strengthen the squad during the January transfer window and next summer to ensure the team has sufficient quality and depth to compete.

Conte believes rebuilding the squad would be essential if he were to take charge at Old Trafford, particularly given United’s recent struggles across competitions.

His second demand concerns the current playing squad. The 57-year-old reportedly wants the club’s hierarchy to give him the freedom to determine which players fit into his long-term plans and which individuals should be allowed to leave.

The Italian also wants trusted members of his coaching staff to accompany him to Manchester United if an agreement is reached.

However, appointing Conte could prove difficult for the club. The Times reports that his salary demands, believed to exceed £10 million annually, could present a significant obstacle during negotiations.

United’s hierarchy are also understood to have concerns about Conte’s fiery personality, which contributed to tensions during his previous spells in English football.

Nevertheless, his managerial record makes him an attractive candidate. Conte won the Premier League title with Chelsea in his first season at Stamford Bridge and subsequently secured league championships with Juventus and Napoli.

Manchester United are reportedly considering several alternatives, including Eddie Howe and former Bayern Munich and Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann. Aston Villa manager Unai Emery and Brighton boss Fabian Hurzeler are also admired, although compensation could complicate any approach.