Manchester United are planning talks with Michael Carrick about continuing as head coach next season, sources have told ESPN.
Carrick is under contract at Old Trafford until the end of the season after taking the reins temporarily following Ruben Amorim's dismissal in January.
The 44-year-old has won 10 of his 15 games in charge to guarantee a return to the Champions League.
Sources have told ESPN that United bosses feel Carrick has earned the right to hold formal talks about continuing in the job next season and is now in pole position to get the job full-time.
The club, according to sources, are committed to a thorough hiring process and have not ruled out appointing an outside candidate. Other coaches have been contacted to get an understanding of their plans for the future.
But United are also aware that Carrick -- along with his coaching team of Steve Holland, Jonathan Woodgate, Travis Binnion and Jonny Evans -- is popular with the squad and that more upheaval over the summer would not necessarily be beneficial.
Carrick also has support from a large number of supporters after wins over Manchester City, Arsenal, Chelsea and Liverpool since taking over.
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Talks with Carrick are set to start before the end of the Premier League season.
Sources have told ESPN that United understand the need for clarity about the manager's position as soon as possible as they look to revamp their squad in the next window.
The recruitment team are targeting two central midfielders and a left winger. A centre-back, left-back and goalkeeper are also on the list of priorities ahead of next season.
