Romano says Manchester United ‘convinced’ Ten Hag will be done and explains his three key demands

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Manchester United are not troubled by interest from Bundesliga clubs in Erik ten Hag, says journalist Fabrizio Romano

Romano told his Here We Go podcast that RB Leipzig and Borussia Dortmund were the two clubs who expressed an interest in the Ajax coach.

He explained United’s stance: “They are relaxed. They are convinced they can do it.”

Ten Hag is currently seeking assurances over the input he would get at United if he becomes manager.

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Three key demands

Romano says there are three key issues he wishes to clarify with Manchester United in the next round of talks.

These are 1) transfers incoming and outgoing, 2) coaching staff, and 3) contract length.

Pay is not an issue, but Ten Hag wants assurances he will be given the support and patience to do the job effectively.

Romano said: “These are key points to be discussed this week. He’s the leading candidate, he’s close to joining Manchester United.”

Singling out the most important issue, he added: “Avoid transfer mistakes, this is priority for Ten Hag.”

Last week Romano had explained Ten Hag wanted United to avoid the type of error which led to the signing of Donny van de Beek, his former Ajax player, when the club spent £35 million to sign him when he was not in the manager’s first team plans.

With good reason, Ten Hag does not wish to be lumbered with a player he does not want, nor from the other side, stuck with players who he wants to be rid of.

Earlier this season Ralf Rangnick made clear he was happy to be rid of Jesse Lingard, only for United to deny him a move in January. This was a sign that despite United’s efforts to change behind the scenes, the same overly-cautious mistakes are being made.

Ten Hag is in for a busy week, with Ajax preparing for the KNVB Cup final against rivals PSV Eindhoven. Any announcement with the United job could have to wait until afterwards.