Antonio Conte has dismissed reports of "advanced negotiations" with any club, directly responding to speculation linking him with the Manchester United managerial position. This comes as Manchester United reportedly begins the process of identifying replacements for current manager Michael Carrick, whose future is uncertain following a recent 4-1 defeat to Como.

Conte Dismisses 'Unfounded' Reports

Italian newspaper La Repubblica had claimed on Thursday that Conte held talks with United's board, demanding full control of transfer policy and stating his intention to appoint his own staff at Old Trafford. However, Conte took to Instagram to clarify his position, stating: "My name has been linked with numerous clubs, but there are currently no negotiations at an advanced stage."

The former Chelsea manager addressed the specifics of the speculation, adding: "I have read reports of financial demands and requests for full control that I have supposedly already made to the clubs mentioned, as well as reservations about what has been described as my 'strong personality'. These reports are unfounded." He concluded that "Should a concrete opportunity arise, that will be the time to hold discussions with the club concerned and jointly consider the terms of a potential agreement, with due regard for both parties' needs and the qualities and approach that define my work as a manager." (Source: TNT Sports)

Despite Conte's public dismissal of advanced talks, BBC Sport understands Conte is keen on the job.

Manchester United's Managerial Search

Michael Carrick is set to remain in charge for Sunday's Premier League match against Bournemouth. However, his future at Old Trafford is uncertain after a "humiliating defeat" to Cesc Fabregas' Como in the Champions League earlier this week. Sources have told BBC Sport that United have begun the process of identifying possible replacements.

Aside from Conte, former Newcastle boss Eddie Howe and ex-Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann are also understood to have their eyes on the job. Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler has distanced himself from links to Old Trafford, despite his side sitting third in the Premier League. Hurzeler, who has a contract with the Seagulls until 2029, stated: "I am really focused on my job here. I have no time to think about these rumours because we play every three days."

Conte's Managerial Pedigree

Conte, who is a free agent after leaving Napoli at the end of last season, boasts a notable managerial career. He won the Serie A title during his first season in Naples, followed by a Supercoppa Italiana victory in his final campaign. (Read more about Serie A here).

The 57-year-old also won the Premier League with Chelsea during his debut campaign at Stamford Bridge in 2016-17 and beat Manchester United in the FA Cup final the following season. He returned to the Premier League in 2021 to replace Jose Mourinho at Tottenham Hotspur, though his time in north London lasted just 16 months, concluding in March 2023 after he criticised "selfish" players and the club's culture.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Has Antonio Conte held advanced talks with Manchester United?

  No, Antonio Conte has publicly stated that he is not in "advanced negotiations" with any club, describing reports of specific financial and control demands as "unfounded".

• What is Michael Carrick's current situation at Manchester United?

  Michael Carrick's future at Old Trafford is uncertain following a 4-1 defeat to Como, though he is expected to remain in charge for the upcoming Premier League match against Bournemouth. Manchester United has begun identifying possible replacements.

• Is Antonio Conte interested in the Manchester United job?

  Despite his public dismissal of advanced talks, BBC Sport understands that Antonio Conte is keen on the Manchester United managerial position.

• What is Antonio Conte's managerial history?

  Antonio Conte has won the Premier League with Chelsea (2016-17) and the FA Cup. He also won the Serie A title and Supercoppa Italiana with Napoli. He previously managed Tottenham Hotspur for 16 months.