Former Barcelona head coach Xavi has emerged as a target for Manchester United, according to the Daily Mail.

The English tabloid claims that “intermediaries” representing the Red Devils have “made contact” with the 44-year-old on two separate occasions over the last few months.

Xavi left Barca at the end of last season. He initially announced his intention to depart in January before reversing his decision.

However, a disagreement with club president Joan Laporta eventually led to him being replaced by Hansi Flick in the summer.

Xavi’s track record as manager

The Spaniard won 89 of his 142 matches in charge of Barcelona over a two-and-a-half-year period, giving him a win ratio of 62.68%.

During his time at the Camp Nou, Xavi won two trophies; the La Liga title and the Spanish Super Cup in 2023. He guided his team to 2nd, 1st and 2nd place finishes in his three seasons in the dugout.

United have three other candidates on their shortlist

The Daily Mail report that Sporting Lisbon boss Ruben Amorim is another potential option for the Red Devils, although Manchester City are regarded as favourites to secure his services if Pep Guardiola does decide to leave the Etihad at the end of the season.

Former Borussia Dortmund coach Edin Terzic is also believed to be under consideration. The German left the Bundesliga side at the end of the last campaign, having guided them to the Champions League final. He has been linked with the West Ham job too, having previously been assistant to Slaven Bilic at the London Stadium.

The third candidate is reportedly Ruud van Nistelrooy, although many feel that the Dutchman would only be regarded by INEOS as an interim appointment, despite having managed PSV Eindhoven in the past.

Find out who is in Manchester United’s first-team squad for the 2024/2025 season here