Zinedine Zidane 'stance' on Man Utd job as scouts 'observe' £21m right-back

Manchester United return to Premier League action this weekend and they don't come much bigger than a trip to Manchester City. Erik ten Hag's side head into the 192nd derby off the back of victory, having beaten Nottingham Forest 1-0 in the FA Cup, but lost their last league game at home to Fulham.

United were well beaten by City in the reverse fixture at Old Trafford and face a side in scintillating form while contending with several major fitness issues. It's set to be a huge challenge for the Reds and in the meantime, ManchesterWorld has rounded up some of the latest headlines coming out of Old Trafford.

Zidane stance

Zinedine Zidane would be expected to reject any offer to take over at United, should new co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe decide to part ways with Ten Hag. French outlet RMC Sport reports that the former Real Madrid boss has been in contact with a confidant of Ratcliffe but is not itching to be in the home dugout at Old Trafford.

Ten Hag has somewhat eased the pressure on himself with an excellent start to 2024 but a poor season overall means it only takes one defeat to turn the tide. Last week's 2-1 loss at home to Fulham raised concerns once again and speculation will continue into the summer.

Zidane has not been involved in management since 2021 and is open to a return, but past teammate Thomas Gravesen recently claimed the former midfielder has admitted he would only manage Madrid, Marseille and the French national team.

Right-back scouted

United scouts were reportedly at Torino's game against Roma on Monday evening to watch right-back Raoul Bellanova. Italian outlet Tuttosport reports that they and Villa had people at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome to watch the Serie A side's 3-2 defeat at Roma.

Bellanova, 23, has been a consistent starter at right wing-back for Torino this season, registering one goal and five assists in 25 appearances. That form has put him in contention for a first ever Italian national team call up and also seemingly caught the eye of Premier League clubs.

The report adds that Bellanova is currently valued between €20-25million (around £17-21m). United are expected to be in the market for a new right-back this summer, with Aaron Wan-Bissaka one of several potential exits.