After a change of heart, former Manchester United interim boss Michael Carrick is back in advanced talks with Middlesbrough to become their new manager, according to Sky Sports reporter Keith Downie.

The Lowdown: Carrick off?

As per BBC journalist Simon Stone on October 11, the 41-year-old former midfielder opted out after talks with the Teeside club over the vacant managerial role, concluding it was not the right time for him to return to football.

Previously, Carrick worked as the assistant manager at Man United between July 2018 and November 2021, before assuming the role as the side’s caretaker manager after the sacking of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.

The Latest: Advanced talks

Downie has now shared a fresh update on Boro’s manager search, revealing a major U-turn with their ‘preferred candidate’.

Taking to Twitter, the Sky Sports reporter claimed:

“Michael Carrick is in advanced talks to take over at Middlesbrough, as per reports elsewhere. The former Man United midfielder is now the preferred candidate following a clutch of interviews last week. Boro play Wigan & Huddersfield this week & sit 22nd in Champ."

The Verdict: Get it done…

With Chris Wilder’s dismissal coming after five defeats in the side’s opening 11 Championship games this season, Boro currently sit in the relegation zone in 22nd place.

Therefore, with talks having prolonged over a two-week period, it is imperative the club secure their next manager as soon as possible, as a major direction change is needed at The Riverside Stadium.

Recommended to Boro chairman Steve Gibson by England manager Gareth Southgate, presenter EFL David Prutton has hailed Carrick for his ‘very good reputation’ in the game.

If he really is their top candidate, the Teesiders must try and get the deal done ahead of the side's weekend fixture against Huddersfield.