Manchester United have identified Fulham's Marco Silva as a potential candidate to become their next permanent head coach, according to fresh reports. The development comes as the Portuguese manager continues to delay signing a new contract with the Cottagers.
Contract Uncertainty at Craven Cottage
Fulham are now reportedly bracing for an approach from the Old Trafford hierarchy for their highly-regarded boss. Silva, 48, sees his current deal expire at the end of this season, and although the West London club have offered him a fresh three-year contract, he has not yet provided a response.
The manager regularly dismisses questions about his future, stating he will only go public when there is concrete news. It is widely believed he has reservations about whether Fulham's ambitions match his own, despite the club breaking their transfer record to sign Kevin for £34million last summer.
United's Summer Search Takes Shape
United are expected to wait until the summer to make a permanent appointment following Monday's sacking of Ruben Amorim after just 18 months. The Portuguese's departure was preceded by a remarkable rant after Sunday's 1-1 draw with Leeds United, where he criticised the club's structure and name-checked figures like Gary Neville.
In the interim, Under-18s manager Darren Fletcher will take charge, starting with Wednesday's trip to Burnley. A temporary appointment until the end of the season is considered plausible, with former boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer open to the role and Fletcher also in contention if he impresses.
A Crowded Field of Contenders
Silva is not the only name on United's radar. He joins a list of speculated candidates that includes Crystal Palace's Oliver Glasner, former Barcelona coach Xavi, ex-Chelsea managers Enzo Maresca and Mauricio Pochettino.
Silva has been in charge at Fulham for three-and-a-half seasons, earning praise for his attractive style of play and effective recruitment. His potential availability on a free transfer this summer makes him an increasingly attractive prospect for a United side looking to rebuild after a turbulent period.
