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Manchester United are reportedly preparing a move for Andoni Iraola, following confirmation that the Bournemouth manager will leave the Cherries at the conclusion of the 2025/26 season.

Andoni Iraola has officially announced his decision to step down from his position at Bournemouth once the current campaign ends, sparking speculation that he could be on his way to Old Trafford.

Currently, Manchester United are under the temporary charge of interim boss Michael Carrick, but the club is believed to be considering bringing in Iraola before the next season begins. Reports have also started to shed light on who could be his first recruits at Old Trafford.

The Red Devils have enjoyed a strong start under Carrick’s leadership and currently sit third in the Premier League with 55 points. However, a recent 2-1 defeat at home to arch-rivals Leeds United has slightly dampened their momentum.

In recent weeks, signs of Manchester United’s form dipping under Carrick have become more noticeable. After collecting 19 points from his initial seven league matches in charge, their tally has dropped to just four points from the last four fixtures.

Earlier in March, United suffered a 2-1 loss at St James’ Park against a 10-man Newcastle United side, conceding in the 90th minute to a stunning strike from William Osula.

Carrick, who was ranked No.16 on FourFourTwo’s list of the greatest Premier League midfielders of all time, is now rumoured to be replaced this summer by outgoing Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola. The Spanish coach could potentially bring two of his current players along with him.

According to a report from the Daily Mail, Iraola may attempt to lure Marcos Senesi and Eli Junior Kroupi to Manchester United, both of whom are said to be on the club’s radar.

Signing Senesi could prove to be a straightforward deal for Manchester United, as the 28-year-old Argentine defender will become a free agent this summer. However, securing Kroupi’s services might be a more complex process.

The 19-year-old French forward has been in excellent form this season, netting 10 goals in 27 Premier League appearances. He remains under contract with Bournemouth until 2030, which could make a transfer challenging.

Kroupi has already caught the eye of United officials by scoring in both fixtures against them this season — first with an 84th-minute equaliser in last year’s 4-4 draw at Old Trafford, and again during last month’s 2-2 draw on the south coast.

While Iraola’s potential double swoop looks promising for Manchester United’s future, interim manager Michael Carrick is also making significant strides in strengthening the club’s youth setup.

Last month, reports emerged that Manchester United scouts travelled to Norway in pursuit of a gifted African teenager to bolster their defensive ranks.

Following INEOS’s acquisition of control over football operations in 2024, the club has prioritised youth development. Earlier this year, United also invited a talented Irish defender for a trial at Carrington.

With Champions League qualification for next season looking almost guaranteed, a third-place finish under an interim manager would be seen as a solid foundation. However, the Red Devils are already setting their sights on a potential title challenge in the 2026-27 campaign.

Michael Carrick’s side will return to Premier League action on Saturday when they travel to Stamford Bridge for an away clash.