On 24 October, Gabriel Agbonlahor said he does not think Unai Emery will leave Aston Villa for Manchester United to replace Michael Carrick. His comments came amid discussion over Manchester United's managerial options.
Agbonlahor gives his view
Agbonlahor shared his opinion on whether Unai Emery will leave Aston Villa. The pundit said on talkSPORT: "Will he go there, though? No, I think we are in a good place, Aston Villa."
TEAMtalk reports on United interest
On October 22, TEAMtalk’s transfer insider, Graeme Bailey, reported that Emery is on Manchester United's radar. TEAMtalk also reported that sources told it Emery is on Manchester United’s managerial shortlist should Carrick lose his job.
TEAMtalk reported that while Manchester United co-owners INEOS are behind Carrick at the moment, there is also a realization at the club that results need to improve.
Bailey's reported details
Bailey reported: "Sources close to the Old Trafford hierarchy have confirmed that Emery was among the managers United conducted background checks on last season as they carried out due diligence on potential options away from Carrick."
Bailey reported: "The Villa boss remains highly regarded by sporting director Jason Wilcox, who has the full backing of co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe and is understood to admire the work Emery has done since arriving at Villa Park."
Bailey reported: "However, while Emery’s name carries considerable weight within United, the practicalities of securing his services would make any move extremely difficult, especially during the season."