Antonio Conte has denied being in advanced talks with any club after reports linked him with the Manchester United job.
Italian newspaper La Repubblica reported on Thursday that Conte had spoken to United’s board about replacing Michael Carrick. The report followed United’s 4-1 defeat by Como on Wednesday.
It also claimed the former Chelsea manager wanted full control of United’s transfer policy and planned to bring his own coaching staff to Old Trafford.
However, Conte has now rejected reports about his demands, insisting he has not reached an advanced stage of negotiations with any club.
Conte denies United talks as Carrick faces uncertain future
“My name has been linked with numerous clubs, but there are currently no negotiations at an advanced stage,” Conte wrote on Instagram.
“I have read reports of financial demands and requests for full control that I have supposedly already made to the clubs mentioned, as well as reservations about what has been described as my “strong personality”. These reports are unfounded.
“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, with due regard for both parties’ needs and the qualities and approach that define my work as a manager.”
Meanwhile, Carrick’s future at Old Trafford remains uncertain after the heavy defeat by Cesc Fabregas’ Como in the Champions League earlier this week.
Carrick is expected to remain in charge for Sunday’s Premier League match against Bournemouth. However, sources have told BBC Sport that United have started identifying potential replacements.
Former Newcastle manager Eddie Howe, Conte and ex Germany boss Julian Nagelsmann are among the names understood to be under consideration.
Conte is currently a free agent after leaving Napoli at the end of last season. The 57 year old enjoyed success in Italy, winning the Serie A title in his first season with the club before lifting the Supercoppa Italiana in his final campaign.
He also has a strong record in English football. Conte won the Premier League title with Chelsea in his first season at Stamford Bridge in 2016 to 2017. The following season, he guided the club to victory over Manchester United in the FA Cup final.
The Italian returned to the Premier League in 2021 when he replaced Jose Mourinho at Tottenham Hotspur. However, his spell in north London lasted only 16 months.
Conte left Tottenham in March 2023 after a remarkable news conference in which he criticised the club’s culture and described some of his players as “selfish”.
