Manchester United could be set for major changes on and off the pitch as Sir Jim Ratcliffe's INEOS team look to kickstart the club's season

Manchester United could be facing significant upheaval both on and off the field. Following Michael Carrick's impressive caretaker spell which rekindled optimism around Old Trafford, the current campaign has descended into a nightmare.

The pressure for positive outcomes has never been more intense, with Carrick living on borrowed time having avoided what appeared to be certain dismissal on multiple occasions. Discontent directed at the boardroom has worked in his favour.

Supporters have also chosen to focus their ire on the current squad rather than their former midfielder in the technical area. Irrespective of who occupies the managerial position come the winter transfer window, United look desperately short of quality additions.

We've got the latest on that situation, alongside a message Sir Jim Ratcliffe and his INEOS colleagues have received regarding their potential next managerial appointment, in our latest news round-up concerning United.

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Carrick replacement options

Should the decision be made to dismiss Carrick, former Liverpool and England midfielder Jamie Redknapp believes there are only two credible candidates for the position. In his view, either Eddie Howe or Unai Emery must be handed the responsibility.

"There are only, I think, two runners," Redknapp told Sky Sports. "Listen, Michael Carrick is still in the job, so it's unfair to be saying it. But if that's the case, if this doesn't improve, it's inevitable that he's going to lose his job. It can only be him (Emery) really, and Eddie Howe."

Howe is currently without a club following his departure from Newcastle, though he is not technically a free agent, as his former employers would still require compensation — estimated at around £3m — from any club looking to appoint him. With Emery contracted to Aston Villa until 2029, he would have proved considerably more costly.

Balde 'ready to leave'

One of United's most glaring transfer oversights during the summer window was their failure to sign a left-back to provide cover for Luke Shaw. Barcelona's Alejandro Balde had been linked with a late switch, but he chose to remain in Spain and compete for his place under Hansi Flick.

That decision has not paid dividends for the seven-time Spain international, who has managed just 116 minutes across four appearances. According to Mundo Deportivo, he has now accepted that he must seek a move away in order to secure regular first-team football.

Barcelona have placed a €40m (£33.4m) valuation on the full-back and are receptive to a January departure, according to Sport. However, the Catalan club would not entertain a loan arrangement, as they are looking to raise funds for their own incoming transfers.