Ralf Rangnick is reportedly 'charmed' by Erik ten Hag's style of football with the interim boss a big admirer of the Ajax boss.
The Dutchman has emerged as United's top pick for the job with Rangnick set to take on a consultancy role at the end of the season.
The Red Devils' search for a new manager is officially underway with reports the club have approached Ten Hag about taking the position.
Rangnick is involved in the process of selecting his successor and it's claimed by Dutch outlet Redactie Telesport that he is a huge fan of Ten Hag and 'charmed' by his philosophy on the pitch with his Ajax side one of the most exciting teams in Europe.
Ten Hag has poured cold water over links with the United job, however, as he insists his sole focus is on finishing the season with the Dutch side.
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He said at Wednesday's press conference: “At the moment I am only working with Ajax and have no further thoughts on the future. The focus is on this season. Right now I shouldn't be the theme. The theme is: how are we going to win games?”
There have also been reports in the Netherlands that Ten Hag could take on a dual role at Ajax next season as head coach and technical director following the exit of Arsenal legend Marc Overmars.
CEO Edwin van der Sar is filling in on a short-term basis, but Ten Hag didn't want to give too much away about his future.
He added: “Others are concerned with the long term. In between matches, it is sometimes discussed because of the vacancy. That has now been filled in the short term, but the vacancy for next season is still there. Others should do that.”
Ten Hag hinted he plans to be at Ajax next season in some capacity, however.
He said: "I'm already working for after this season, that's my responsibility."
Football director John Murtough confirmed United's process to find a new manager has begun after the club reportedly compiled a five-man shortlist headlined by Ten Hag and Pochettino.
"We know that consistency is key as we strive for a top-four finish this season," Murtough said.
"I want to reiterate however that this is not the ultimate objective for Manchester United, and everyone at the club is focused on challenging for the top trophies.
"We are now conducting a thorough process for the appointment of a new permanent manager who will take charge this summer, with the objective to get us back to challenging for those domestic and European titles."
