Antonio Conte has denied being in advanced negotiations with any club amid speculation linking him with the managerial position at Manchester United.
The former Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur boss was reportedly in discussions with United’s board about replacing Michael Carrick following the club’s disappointing 4-1 defeat to Como in the Champions League.
Italian newspaper La Repubblica reported on Friday that Conte had demanded full control of United’s transfer policy and the freedom to select his own backroom staff before accepting the job at Old Trafford.
However, the Italian manager dismissed the reports, insisting that no negotiations had reached an advanced stage.
“My name has been linked with numerous clubs, but there are currently no negotiations at an advanced stage,” Conte wrote on Instagram.
He also denied reports that he had already made financial demands or requested complete control over a club’s operations.
“I have read reports of financial demands and requests for full control that I have supposedly already made to the clubs mentioned, as well as reservations about what has been described as my ‘strong personality’. These reports are unfounded,” he added.
Conte explained that discussions would only begin if a concrete opportunity emerged, emphasising the need for both parties to agree on mutually acceptable terms.
“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.
Meanwhile, Carrick’s future at Manchester United remains uncertain, with reports suggesting that the club has started identifying potential replacements.
Other candidates reportedly under consideration include former Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe and ex-Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann.
Conte, who is currently without a club after leaving Napoli at the end of last season, guided the Italian side to the Serie A title in his debut campaign before winning the Supercoppa Italiana during his final season.
The 57-year-old also led Chelsea to the Premier League title in the 2016/17 season and won the FA Cup the following year. He joined Tottenham in 2021 before departing the north London club in March 2023.
Elsewhere, Brighton and Hove Albion manager Fabian Hurzeler has distanced himself from speculation linking him with the United job.
The German, whose contract with Brighton runs until 2029, insisted that his attention remains on his current responsibilities.
“I am really focused on my job here. I have no time to think about these rumours because we play every three days,” Hurzeler said.
He also expressed respect for Carrick, describing him as a good person and saying they maintained a positive relationship.
“I have a lot of respect for Michael Carrick. He is a great human being, he is a great personality. Every time we meet each other, we have a really good relationship,” he added.
Conte’s statement comes amid growing speculation over Manchester United’s managerial plans, although the Italian has made it clear that reports of advanced negotiations do not reflect his current position.