Manchester United 'hold talks' with Xavi as Real Madrid boost emerges

Manchester United are looking ahead to a busy week after returning to winning ways after the international break.

United claimed a 2-1 win over Brentford at Old Trafford in the Premier League thanks to goals from Alejandro Garnacho and Rasmus Hojlund. The Reds got the win on the back of a run of five matches without a victory before the two-week hiatus for international fixtures.

That run had led to increased pressure over Erik ten Hag's future as United manager. Thomas Tuchel was linked with potentially replacing the Dutchman before he was named as Gareth Southgate's successor as the new England manager. MEN Sport takes a look at some of the latest United stories that have generated headlines over the last 24 hours.

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Reports have emerged claiming that former Barcelona manager Xavi is a candidate to replace Ten Hag at United.

According to the Daily Mail, United have identified Xavi as the manager they want to appoint should they decide to part ways with Ten Hag. It has been reported that the Reds have already held initial discussions with the former Barcelona boss's representatives over a potential appointment.

However, the article goes on to say that, despite United holding meetings in Barcelona in recent months, they are not related to the possible future appointment of Xavi. The report also stresses that Ten Hag's position as United manager remains safe despite the intense speculation.

MEN Sport says: It should come as no surprise to see Xavi linked with the United manager's job at some point. What is unusual is