Mauricio Pochettino wants Premier League job as Manchester United consider sacking Erik ten Hag

Mauricio Pochettino is eager to stay in the Premier League after leaving Chelsea.

Pochettino left the Blues by mutual consent on Tuesday. The finer terms of his exit are still being finalised, but the Argentine, who had a year remaining on his Chelsea contract, is open to a quick return to work — and has long been on Manchester United's radar.

United's new part-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe is considering a change in the dugout after Saturday’s FA Cup Final against Manchester City following a dismal season. The Red Devils recorded their lowest-ever finish in the Premier League — eighth — and will miss out on European football unless they beat their rivals at Wembley.

Pochettino is admired by Ratcliffe and his company INEOS, and was among the coaches invited to the birthday celebrations of Sir Dave Brailsford — INEOS director of sport — this year.

Ratcliffe also owns French club Nice and Pochettino was approached about the head coach role last year, when he was out of work after leaving Paris Saint-Germain.

Pochettino, who managed Southampton and spent five-and-a-half years at Tottenham, has always favoured working in the English top flight, which he believes is the most competitive league in the world, and is likely to be interested in the United job if it is available.

The 52-year-old has previously been open to a top role in Italy or Spain, or even an opportunity with an international team. Pochettino has said he would be interested in managing England and could be a contender to succeed Gareth Southgate if the Three Lions boss departs after this summer's European Championship.