Steve McClaren is mulling over an offer from West Ham to leave Manchester United and become their new manager.
McClaren held talks with West Ham officials yesterday and is now deciding his next move.
United are trying to persuade their assistant manager to stay, but events at Old Trafford over the last few days have pushed him closer to the exit.
McClaren looks unlikely to succeed Sir Alex Ferguson as manager in 12 months' time.
The United board are thought to want a higher-profile manager and McClaren has yet to coach his own side.
McClaren's contract expires at the end of next season and he knows he could be shown the door by whoever replaces Ferguson.
This has left him uncertain about his future at United and he is seriously considering leaving and taking over at West Ham.
McClaren said in the Manchester Evening News: "I will make my decision in the next few weeks.
"I am open minded about the decision."
The omens do not look good for United and McClaren appears set to end his two-and-a-half year association with the Reds.
West Ham have identified the 40-year-old as the man to succeed Harry Redknapp at Upton Park.
They have stepped up their efforts to land McClaren after Alan Curbishley claimed over the weekend that he is happy to remain in charge at Charlton.
West Ham are impressed by the key role McClaren has played in United's success over the past three seasons. The Hammers have also taken note of the rave reviews he has earned with England this season. -PA-