Roberto De Zerbi: Fabrizio Romano drops update on United target’s future

Manchester United’s search for a permanent successor to Ruben Amorim has taken a fresh twist after transfer expert Fabrizio Romano offered the latest insight into Roberto De Zerbi’s thinking. The Italian, who left Marseille earlier this month, has emerged as a leading contender for the Old Trafford post, yet Romano stresses that De Zerbi will not be rushed into a decision.

United moved swiftly in January when Amorim’s short reign was brought to a close, installing club legend Michael Carrick as interim boss until the summer. Carrick has since overseen a dramatic upturn in form, collecting 13 points from a possible 15 and recording statement victories over Manchester City, Arsenal and Tottenham. The sequence has given INEOS breathing space to conduct a thorough review of the managerial market, with Premier League experience reportedly high on the criteria list.

De Zerbi fits that profile. After elevating Brighton to a European-chasing force, the 45-year-old accepted the Marseille project last summer and delivered a runners-up spot in Ligue 1. A turbulent follow-up campaign triggered a mutual separation, placing him back among Europe’s most coveted coaches. Tottenham, who recently dismissed Thomas Frank, hold concrete interest, yet Romano underlines that Old Trafford is currently viewed as the most probable destination.

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Romano said: “Roberto De Zerbi is highly appreciated internally and would be open to returning to Premier League football. However, De Zerbi is not a coach who jumps into an opportunity. He wants to understand very clearly what kind of project, opportunities there are at any club interested in him.”

The journalist added that De Zerbi has fielded numerous approaches over the past 24-36 months and has developed a habit of studying every sporting blueprint before committing. With further vacancies expected across the continent before the summer window, the Italian is content to monitor developments and weigh which environment best matches his footballing philosophy.

United’s hierarchy have already overseen two managerial changes since the INEOS takeover and recognise that their next appointment could define the club’s trajectory. While De Zerbi’s progressive style appeals, questions linger over whether the intense glare of Manchester United might overwhelm a coach who has yet to manage a traditional super-club. Carrick’s seamless handling of star-laden dressing rooms and his immediate results have only muddied the waters; the longer the former midfielder maintains his blistering run, the louder calls will become for him to receive the role on a permanent basis.

For now, De Zerbi remains in the background, analysing, evaluating and waiting. Romano’s update reinforces that the next move will be made on the Italian’s terms, leaving United, Tottenham and any other suitors in a state of watchful anticipation as the season enters its decisive months.