Manchester United have reached a verbal agreement with Ajax’s Erik ten Hag to become their next coach, according to multiple sources.

WuzupNigeria reported that the Ajax coach became the top favourite to replace interim manager, Ralf Ragnick, ahead of Paris Saint Germain’s Mauricio Pochettino who was also considered for the job.

However, The Athletic reported on Tuesday night that United have an agreement in principle with ten Hag to become their permanent boss on a four-year deal.

“Ajax are aware of the situation and still needs to reach a deal with United. United will also need to finalise details and documentation, while there will be no written agreement or announcement until after Ajax face PSV Eindhoven in the Dutch Cup final on April 17.

“The Athletic understands his coaching staff will also be finalised in due course,” the publication said.

Respected Italian sports journalist, Fabrizio Romano, also confirmed the report this evening.

There had been reports that the Dutch coach, 52, won’t sign for the club until they meet ‘a range of assurances’ which include an understanding of the type of input he would have on transfers, coaching staff, and contract length, as he looks to plot Manchester United’s recovery to elite status.

However, Romano revealed that the Dutchman “is now described as ‘satisfied’ by Manchester United’s plan to make important decisions together with him. That’s why he wanted a long-term contract. #MUFC Backroom staff and buyout clause [€2m] payment to be discussed soon in order to complete the process.”

“His appointment as new Man United manager is at the final stages. #MUFC Nothing signed yet – backroom staff to be decided. No announcement is expected this week. Ajax and Man Utd will be in contact about €2m clause.”

However, The Athletic added that “United want to be respectful to both Ajax and Ten Hag as they have a cup final to play and are still seeking to be champions of the Eredivisie.”

Before signing for Ajax in December 2017, Ten Hag worked alongside Pep Guardiola at Bayern Munich where he handled the second team.

Since joining the Dutch champions, the 52-year-old has led them to two domestic titles in 2019 and 2021 and he’s on course for his third with Ajax leading the Eredivisie table by four points.

He led Ajax to the semi-finals of the Champions League in 2019, where they dramatically lost to Pochettino’s Tottenham.