Man United want Gary O’Neil talks over possible coaching role

Manchester United are keen to speak to Wolverhampton Wanderers head coach Gary O'Neil about a role in a potential new coaching setup at Old Trafford, sources have told ESPN.

With Sir Jim Ratcliffe's Ineos Group now in charge of football operations at United after completing the purchase of a 27% stake in the club in February, sources said the new regime, led by the director of Ineos Sports, Sir Dave Brailsford, is attempting to build a new coaching structure led by a head coach.

– Stream on ESPN+: LaLiga, Bundesliga, more (US)

And while no final decision has been made on Erik ten Hag's future as manager, sources have told ESPN that United have already evaluated England manager Gareth Southgate, the Brighton manager Brentford's Roberto De Zerbi and Thomas Frank as potential successors.

O'Neil, who was appointed Molineux manager last August following the departure of Julen Lopetegui, has guided Wolves to European qualification this season after keeping Bournemouth in the Premier League in his first top-flight job last season .

And sources have told ESPN that the 40-year-old has been informed of United's interest, with senior club figures expressing a desire to discuss his intentions.

Sources have confirmed to ESPN United's interest in O'Neil, although it is not known what role they might be willing to offer. As well as evaluating management options, sources said United were also considering strengthening their entire coaching staff.

O'Neil signed a three-year contract when he took charge of Wolves last summer, leaving United with the prospect of having to pay compensation if they choose to offer him a job at the club.

The former Middlesbrough, Portsmouth and West Ham United midfielder began his coaching career with Liverpool U-18s after being hired by Michael Edwards when he was sporting director at the club.

Edwards and O'Neil had previously worked together during their time at Portsmouth in the Premier League in the early 2000s.

Man United declined to comment on the possibility of talks with O'Neil when approached by ESPN.