When Erik ten Hag to Manchester United could be announced as Ajax change their mind

It looks set in stone that Erik ten Hag will be the next permanent Manchester United manager.

The Ajax boss has emerged as one of Europe's most coveted coaches for his work with the Eredivisie giants - and he's now ready for the next step.

United appointed Ralph Rangnick as caretaker following the sacking of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer last year and have taken their time over the next full-time appointment.

And despite interest in Mauricio Pochettino, Luis Enrique and Julen Lopetegui, ten Hag has been chosen as the man next to have a crack at reviving the fallen Old Trafford club.

His move from Amsterdam is an open secret at this point, so when could it be officially announced?

Ajax are in the midst of a push to win the league and cup and the ongoing speculation feels like an unneeded distraction for the club, with fans and players likely preferring to receive some certainty either way.

And they may get it sooner rather than later.

Sky Sports report United could be given the green light to announce their new boss before the weekend.

Ajax face PSV in the Dutch Cup Final this weekend and it's said they would rather close the matter now than allow it to drag on and on with such an important match to play.

Initially, it's believed they had wanted to delay the announcement but have now changed their minds.

And that will likely suit the United hierarchy just fine, given they need a PR boost with more protests against the club's ownership planned ahead of Saturday's Premier League clash with Norwich City.