Manchester United need to move quickly if they are to prevent in-demand manager Pep Guardiola from joining cross city rivals Manchester City, according to The Sun.
The Sun claims that the departing Bayern Munich boss has held preliminary talks with both sides, and has astonishingly already rejected an approach from Chelsea, who approached him just after they had sacked Jose Mourinho.
He had recently admitted he would be open to succeeding Arsene Wenger at Arsenal, though the Frenchman isn’t likely to exit the post in time for a deal to be done.
And because of the interest shown in his services by the four sides, The Sun states that he is yet to make his mind up.
“The reason I’m not staying at Bayern is very simple — I want to coach in England in the Premier League,” he said.
“That’s the only reason I’m not extending my contract. I’m young enough. I’m 44 years old. I want a new challenge.
“I know Bayern wanted to keep me — but at this stage in my career I need a new challenge. That’s it, nothing more.
“I have different offers but I haven’t decided yet.”
But an unnamed source close to the 44-year-old has hinted that City are the closest to snapping him up, despite more interest from mainland Europe.
“His representatives have received formal calls from City and United. And they have said no to Chelsea, who also called, and turned down Milan and Paris Saint-Germain.
“Right now, it is true City are very close and his most likely destination.
“But he has never hidden his huge admiration for Manchester United and also the fact he would love to work there.
“All the options are on the table and no definitive decision has been made.
“And yes, though it’s unlikely at this stage, even Arsenal are an option. But they’ve not made a formal call, though they have inquired about Pep’s situation.”
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