Erik ten Hag is now FAVORITE to become Man Utd boss after a secret dossier put him ahead of Mauricio Pochettino in the race

ERIK TEN HAG is the favorite to become Manchester United’s new boss – after a series of dossiers on all the candidates were finalised.

The club has compiled comprehensive background checks for each of its potential targets Ajax coach comes out on top well.

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Ten Hag and former Spurs boss Maurice Pochettino fought a head-to-head race.

But after the club spent weeks putting together their dossiers, they now believe it is Dutch Ten Hag who can be the manager for at least the next five years – and take United back to the top of English and European football.

United want to be able to make an announcement before the end of the season so the new boss can hit the ground running ahead of a crucial summer of recruitment.

Thomas Tuchel had emerged as a surprise new candidate for the job due to the turmoil at Chelsea.

But United fear a potential takeover that could keep the Germany manager at Stamford Bridge would drag on through the summer.

That would make her wait and ultimately be disappointed.

Current coach of the Red Devils Ralph Rangnik was part of the process to identify the new boss as he prepares to take on an advisory role at the end of the season.

United believe the appointment of Ten Hag, 52, will not only help attract players but also retain some of those whose future is up in the air.

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There are some negotiations to be had with Ajax as his current deal runs until the end of next season.

Now a Liverpool legend Robbie Fowler laughed at suggestions from Gary Neville that Diego Simeone should be the permanent gaffer at Old Trafford.

Fowler said: “I laughed this week hearing Gary Neville yelling that his former club should make Diego Simeone their next manager.

“Honestly. I’m not saying he’s against football, but I’m saying some of the antics his team pulls in, some of the horrible things they do and the tactics they pursue. Not at Manchester United.

“Fans would be shouting it out within weeks and even if he actually did win with it, they wouldn’t take it for long.

“United have a certain expectation of how they should play that was set by Sir Matt Busby and Alex Ferguson.”