Sir Jim Ratcliffe would seemingly prefer Eddie Howe to become the next Manchester United manager if Michael Carrick is axed. The former Red Devils midfielder is widely expected to be sacked after overseeing a run of eight games without victory in all competitions. He was already under pressure heading into Sunday's game against Bournemouth, which resulted in a chastening 3-0 defeat.

It's been reported that United chiefs are discussing the possibility of sacking Carrick ahead of United's next Premier League game against Chelsea.

A number of potential replacements have already been linked with the Old Trafford giants, with Eddie Howe and Julian Nagelsmann among the early favourites.

Howe is reportedly favoured by United director of football Jason Wilcox, who reportedly values his experience of managing in the Premier League with Bournemouth and Newcastle.

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Meanwhile, head of recruitment Christopher Vivell is said to prefer the idea of appointing Nagelsmann, who has been out of work since leaving the Germany job in the summer.

Ratcliffe, however, will have the final say and has always favoured the prospect of having an English manager at the helm.

According to The Sun, the INEOS billionaire maintains that United should preferably be represented by a homegrown head coach.

It suggests that Ratcliffe might lean towards a move for Howe, who is believed to be keen on managing the Red Devils should the opportunity arise.

The former Newcastle boss was initially planning on taking a break from football, having walked away from St James' Park in the summer, but would reportedly be open to cutting that short to join United.

Additionally, the fact that he is currently unemployed means he could be signed without United needing to pay any compensation.

The report adds that Howe has been watching United games and making notes in preparation for a potential move to Old Trafford.

His first task as United boss would be to ensure a return to winning ways, having managed only one Premier League victory so far this season.