Manchester United have agreed in principle to appoint Michael Carrick as their interim head coach until the end of the season.

The 44-year-old Carrick became the frontrunner after the club held discussions with him and former manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer about taking over following recent managerial changes. He was pictured arriving at United’s training ground on Tuesday as the deal neared completion.

Carrick is expected to assemble a backroom team including former England assistant manager Steve Holland, along with Jonathan Woodgate, Jonny Evans, and Travis Binnion. Former midfielder Darren Fletcher, who managed United for the last two games, was offered a role in Carrick’s staff but has chosen to return to his Under-18s managerial position.

Carrick previously served as caretaker manager for three matches after Solskjaer’s sacking in 2021, winning two and drawing one before Ralf Rangnick took over for the remainder of that season.

During his 12-year playing career at Manchester United, Carrick made 464 appearances, winning five Premier League titles and a Champions League trophy. He later managed Middlesbrough, leading them to the Championship play-offs in his first season before being dismissed last summer.

Official confirmation of Carrick’s interim appointment is expected later on Tuesday.