Antonio Conte has refused to be drawn into speculation linking him with Manchester United, insisting there are no advanced negotiations over his next managerial role.
The Italian, who left Napoli last season, has been mentioned as a potential replacement for Michael Carrick, with the United manager seemingly heading towards the exit door. However, Conte has moved to cool suggestions that any move is close or that he has already set out firm conditions to interested clubs.
“My name has been linked with numerous clubs, but there are currently no negotiations at an advanced stage,” Conte said, in comments reported on Saturday.
The former Napoli boss also dismissed claims about the financial terms and level of control he would demand before accepting a new position. He said he had read reports suggesting he had already made specific requests to the clubs mentioned, along with suggestions that there were concerns about his “strong personality”.
“These reports are unfounded, as there is currently no concrete basis for such assessments,” Conte added.
Conte made clear that he would only discuss terms once a genuine proposal is on the table. “Should a concrete opportunity arise, that will be the time to hold discussions with the club concerned and jointly consider the terms of a potential agreement, with due regard for both parties’ needs and the qualities and approach that define my work as a manager,” he said.
For now, the links with Manchester United remain speculative. Conte’s comments leave the door open to a future appointment, but they also underline that no firm agreement is currently in place.
“Until then, any assumptions about my demands and my professional future remain speculation and cannot be treated as fact,” he concluded.
