Erik ten Hag has been interviewed for the Manchester United job, Sportsmail can reveal.

The 52-year-old Ajax coach spoke to United on Monday as the club stepped up its search for a permanent replacement to take over from Ralf Rangnick next season.

United sources on Tuesday said a number of candidates are being interviewed from a list that includes Mauricio Pochettino, Julen Lopetegui and Luis Enrique. 

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Thomas Tuchel is no longer considered a viable option. Ten Hag, previously linked with Tottenham and Newcastle, is the bookies’ favourite to take over.

United hope to make a decision before the end of next month and have the new man in place as soon as possible after the end of the season.

Confirmation that the 52-year-old spoke to United will only crank up the noise about him now being the outright favourite to take over at Old Trafford in the summer.