Sir Jim Ratcliffe is reluctant to confirm Michael Carrick as Manchester United's permanent manager, with the club's co-owner expected to play a central part in whatever decision is ultimately made, according to The Athletic.

Carrick held talks with Ratcliffe at United's Carrington training ground on Monday, yet the interim boss remains uncertain about his future at Old Trafford. The Daily Mail reports that United are in no rush to make a call, preferring to wait until Champions League qualification is secured before committing to a long-term appointment.

Villa eye Trafford as Martinez replacement

Elsewhere in the Premier League, Aston Villa are keeping tabs on Manchester City goalkeeper James Trafford as a potential successor to Emiliano Martinez, The Times reports.

Manchester United, meanwhile, are said to hold Carlos Baleba in high regard, with The Athletic noting the club view his data profile — covering ground coverage, possession-winning, and passing — as a strong fit for their squad.

Spurs fined and Palhinha future in doubt

Tottenham have been fined €10,000 (£8,656) and issued a warning by UEFA in connection with incidents during their Champions League round of 16 first leg against Atletico Madrid — a tie Spurs lost 7-5 on aggregate, the Evening Standard reports.

The north London club are also looking to renegotiate the terms of their option-to-buy agreement for Joao Palhinha with Bayern Munich. Sky in Germany reports that Tottenham, while content with the midfielder's performances, want to bring his €30m (£26m) fee down to a lower figure.

Barcelona consider Silva and Neto

In European football, Mundo Deportivo reports that Barcelona are weighing up moves for Manchester City pair Bernardo Silva and Pedro Neto as the Catalan club plan their summer transfer activity.