Liverpool’s talks with Kieran McKenna have been revealed as Manchester United consider a surprise move

Liverpool spoke to current Ipswich Town boss Kieran McKenna about a coaching role in 2014 before he eventually joined Manchester United’s backroom staff. United are believed to be eyeing the 38-year-old as a potential management candidate should Erik ten Hag leave this summer.

Alex Inglethorpe, after leaving Tottenham to take up the role of academy director at the Reds, had hoped then Spurs manager McKenna would join him at Anfield.

It has even been suggested that he has met with manager Brendan Rodgers to discuss the potential move. However, McKenna declined and instead joined United two years later.

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McKenna was a United fan as a child. On his appointment to the U16s, he stated: “To go to Manchester United, there is no bigger move you can make. It’s a dream come true.”

That sentiment would likely remain if a first-team place at Old Trafford becomes available in the coming weeks, especially with Ten Hag’s future uncertain even if the Red Devils secure their 13th FA Cup this month.

Although inexperienced, INEOS’ interest in McKenna is not too surprising given his success with Tractor Boys. United are reportedly looking for a candidate who can lead a long-term project rather than chasing immediate success next season, The Guardian reports.

As a former assistant, McKenna already has relationships with many of the players and was well-respected at Carrington, which would certainly help achieve both goals.

Liverpool, meanwhile, have already found Jurgen Klopp’s successor, with Feyenoord’s Arne Slot expected to be confirmed as the next manager at Anfield soon.