Report: United include Allegri in search, Pochettino remains front-runner

Manchester United's search for a permanent replacement for former manager Jose Mourinho has reportedly extended to the Italian top flight.

Although Tottenham gaffer Mauricio Pochettino is understood to be the favorite for the prestige position, United chairman Ed Woodward will also consider Juventus boss Max Allegri for the appointment, according to the Evening Standard's James Robson.

United have won two on the spin in convincing fashion under interim manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, though it's alleged that Woodward is looking to appoint the fourth full-time coach of his tenure at Old Trafford. The club is also in the market for a sporting director, with Robson's report adding that Juventus' Fabio Paratici has been targeted for the vacant position.

Allegri is believed to be open to working in the Premier League. The former midfielder was initially linked with succeeding Arsene Wenger at Arsenal, but a dearth of transfer funds is thought to have been a stumbling block.

The Livorno-born manager has developed a reputation as a serial winner in Serie A from his time with AC Milan and Juventus. Allegri has collected five league titles, a quartet of Coppa Italia crowns, and twice finished runner-up in the Champions League.