Newcastle United's could still land Antonio Conte as the dream managerial appointment with Manchester United "losing interest" according to the latest reports.
The Daily Star claims the Red Devils will distance themselves from the former Inter manager over financial issues.
Conte has been one of the names linked with taking over at Old Trafford to replace Ole Gunnar Solskjaer after last weekend's humiliating defeat against arch rivals Liverpool.
Man United are currently seventh in the Premier League table but have stood by the Norwegian, despite making it clear that he needs to pick up results in his "next two games."
Go here for the latest breaking Newcastle United takeover updates
Conte's title winning credentials, both in England and in Italy, place him high on the list of any club wanting to compete for titles, and the fact he's currently unemployed will appeal to both Man United and Newcastle.
However, the cost of employing the 52-year-old have put Man United chiefs off hiring him, despite leading Inter Milan to the Serie A title last season.
It's reported that Conte would demand a contract until 2025 worth an estimated £18m-a-season.
Newcastle are still on the hunt for a replacement manager after Steve Bruce's departure, and Conte was tentatively linked with the Magpies following on from the recent takeover.
Newcastle's current Premier League standing isn't thought to appeal to the Italian, who wants to compete at the top end of the division.
Money of course, is no object to the new owners, but it could take a number of years before the Magpies are competing for any sort of silverware.
The report claims that Conte would want to bring in his own team of backroom staff to Man United, as well as being able to sign a new holding midfielder and full back in the next transfer window to suit his favoured 3-5-2 system.
It would mean the Red Devils would be forced to shell out millions in compensation to part ways with Solskjaer, Michael Carrick, Mike Phelan and Kieran McKenna.
