INEOS “would like to stick” with Erik ten Hag as Manchester United manager beyond the end of the season, according to The Athletic reporter Laurie Whitwell.

There has been constant speculation about the Dutchman’s future in recent months but the reliable journalist claims that Sir Jim Ratcliffe and his team are making plans for next campaign with ten Hag still at the helm.

With the Red Devils boss having all but written off his team’s chances of qualifying for the Champions League following the defeat to Chelsea on Thursday night, it has prompted more debate about whether he could be sacked this summer.

However, it appears that INEOS are not currently looking to replace ten Hag. Whether that will change if results continue to be poor, it remains to be seen.

Restructuring the recruitment department

INEOS are said to be focusing their efforts on improving the structure above ten Hag at the moment. They are set to appoint Southampton’s Jason Wilcox as the club’s technical director, with Dan Ashworth likely to follow suit when a compensation package is agreed with Newcastle.

At the same time, it has been reported that John Murtough will leave his position as sporting director. It is hoped that this restructuring will help the manager do his job more effectively.

United have been linked with a number of managers

Despite Whitwell’s claim about ten Hag’s position, there have been rumours that Ratcliffe and INEOS have been speaking to potential candidates if they do decide to change managers.

England boss Gareth Southgate, Brentford’s Thomas Frank, ex-Chelsea head coach Graham Potter and even Wolves manager Gary O’Neill have been mentioned as possible options.

A lot may still hinge on whether ten Hag is able to finish the season strongly. They face Liverpool on Sunday afternoon and another defeat will put more pressure on the United manager.