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Manchester United missed out on the signature of Thomas Tuchel after he agreed to become the new England manager.
The board were also interested in Julian Nageslmann and Xabi Alonso, as Centre Devils exclusively revealed.
However, the latter turned down a summer approach by the club and opted to stay in the Bundesliga at Bayer Leverkusen.
United are aware that finding a top permanent replacement for Erik ten Hag will be difficult in the middle of the season.
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However, they have recently contacted a new elite European manager in the last few months.
Mail Sport report that United’s board have approached ex-Barcelona manager Xavi twice.
CEO Omar Berrada flew out to Barcelona last Thursday, along with three other members of United’s hierarchy.
Xavi has also reportedly made it clear to potential suitors that he does not want to coach in Spain again.
While no contract has been explicitly offered to the Spaniard, it is likely that the terms of a deal and United’s future project has been discussed in these meetings.
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During his time at Barcelona, Xavi managed 122 games, winning 76 of them – a 62% win record.
He also led Barcelona to a La Liga title and Spanish Super cup in 2023.
If United’s approach for him is unsuccessful, they also have two other managers on their shortlist.
Two weeks ago, it was reported that former Borussia Dortmund coach Edin Terzic could be targetted by United.
Sporting Lisbon coach Ruben Amorim is also of interest, but it is believed that Manchester City could beat their rivals to his signature if they decide to replace Pep Guardiola.
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