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Outgoing Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola has reportedly emerged as a candidate to become Manchester United's next permanent head coach this summer. The Cherries boss, who is poised to leave the Vitality Stadium upon the expiry of his contract, features on United's shortlist alongside interim manager Michael Carrick, months after Ruben Amorim's dismissal.

The Telegraph reports that Iraola is held in high regard by United's decision-makers, with his coaching philosophy and attacking approach to the game proving an appealing prospect. His tactical framework is reportedly precisely what United are seeking to replicate.

Carrick has impressed during his tenure as the club's interim head coach, with the Red Devils closing in on a return to Champions League football. United require just two points from their remaining four fixtures to mathematically confirm their place in Europe's most prestigious competition.

Despite Carrick's encouraging performances since returning to Old Trafford, United's hierarchy are reportedly cautious about repeating the circumstances surrounding Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's appointment as manager in 2019. United have remained steadfast with their intention to conduct a thorough interview process and take due care over the appointment, with Carrick set to remain in charge until the season's conclusion.

According to the report, the Red Devils will still hold discussions with other prospective candidates, but Iraola is highly regarded and his preference is to remain in the Premier League - although he does favour the prospect of residing in London. Iraola is also being chased by Crystal Palace, with their head coach Oliver Glasner set to depart Selhurst Park this summer, while Chelsea are interested in the Bournemouth boss too. The Blues are searching for a new head coach after severing ties with Liam Rosenior just a few months into his contract, while Marco Silva and Xabi Alonso are also reportedly being approached over the vacant role at Stamford Bridge.

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United are said to be holding off until Champions League football is guaranteed before progressing too far with the managerial appointment, so as not to create any unnecessary distractions. Carrick was questioned about his future at the club earlier this month and said: "In terms of deadline, it's not something I'm really chasing. It will become clear when it becomes clear."

The interim United boss also dismissed any comparison to Solskjaer and added: "I've got the utmost respect for him. He's a close friend of mine and I worked closely with him when I was here. We did a lot of good things and came close.

"You can compare all sorts of different situations with managers, coaches and teams over the years. But it's irrelevant really. It really is. That's not a negative or a positive.

"It just doesn't have a link at all. We're a different team now, irrespective of who's in charge. Comparisons literally don't make any difference."