Former Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur manager Antonio Conte has denied reports that he is in advanced talks to replace Michael Carrick at Manchester United, describing claims about his demands as “unfounded.”

The Italian coach was linked with the Old Trafford job after United suffered a 4-1 Champions League defeat to Como on Wednesday, increasing pressure on Carrick.

Italian newspaper La Repubblica reported that Conte had held talks with United officials and demanded full control of the club’s transfer policy, as well as the right to appoint his own coaching staff.

However, Conte rejected the reports in a statement posted on Instagram on Friday.

“My name has been linked with numerous clubs, but there are currently no negotiations at an advanced stage,” he said.

He also dismissed reports that he had already made financial demands or requested complete control over football decisions at clubs interested in hiring him.

“These reports are unfounded, as there is currently no concrete basis for such assessments,” Conte said.

United’s 4-1 defeat to Como extended their winless run to seven matches in all competitions, raising fresh questions about Carrick’s future.

Captain Bruno Fernandes criticised the team’s “mood of defeat” following the loss, while Carrick apologised for the performance.

Reports indicate that United have started considering possible replacements, with Conte among the names linked to the position.

The 57-year-old Italian, who left Napoli after winning the Serie A title in the 2024-25 season, said he would take his time before returning to management.

“Should a concrete opportunity arise, that will be the time to hold discussions with the club concerned and jointly consider the terms of a potential agreement,” he said.

Conte previously won the Premier League with Chelsea in 2017.