Man Utd eye shock swoop for Kieran McKenna as Red Devils make contact with Ipswich boss amid Erik ten Hag uncertainty

McKenna's Tractor Boys will play Premier League football for the first time in 22 years in 2024/25 after securing back-to-back automatic promotions. The 38-year-old's success in his first managerial gig has therefore piqued the interest of United but according to The Guardian, there is also strong admiration from other clubs in the top flight - one of them being Brighton.

United's new co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe plans to review Ten Hag's position following the conclusion of the FA Cup final against Manchester City on May 25. McKenna is highly regarded by the Red Devils' hierarchy and initial contact has already been made between the two parties. However, Ipswich are determined to keep hold of the Northern Irishman and given the fact his current deal at Portman Road runs until 2027, a move would likely cost United a serious amount in compensation.

McKenna was previously part of United's coaching staff and was one of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's assistants after initially joining from Tottenham as an Under-18s coach. He came through Spurs' youth system as a player but had to retire in 2009 at the age of just 22 due to a serious hip injury, all before he could make a first senior appearance.

United's managerial issues will be put on hold for the next week-and-a-half as Ten Hag tries to navigate a positive end to the campaign. The Dutchman's side take on Newcastle and Brighton in their final league matches before locking horns with City at Wembley next Saturday. Two, or perhaps even three, victories could see Ten Hag remain at Old Trafford, although given the fact Brentford boss Thomas Frank is also reportedly being eyed as a potential replacement, it looks only a matter of time until Ten Hag departs Manchester.