Carrick continues to have support in his current role, but sources say United are approaching a key stage in their planning beyond this season.
After their game against Bournemouth on March 20, United will not play again until April 13.
Sources indicate this period will be a moment when members of the hierarchy begin more serious discussions about potential candidates - and then start making initial contact with names they would like to have in the frame as their next manager.
At this stage, sources have indicated to Flashscore that Julian Nagelsmann is among the names intriguing United’s powerbrokers.
Nagelsmann is currently in charge of the German national team, but it is possible that initial feelers could soon be put out to gauge whether he might be open to a move further down the line.
Roberto De Zerbi, currently out of work, is another option. However, United will not be afraid to target managers who are already in jobs if they believe there is a genuine chance of landing them.
Initial contact will be used to establish whether a coach is actively interested in becoming United’s manager. Once the club have a clearer list of targets, they will then weigh up their options.
There remains a level of satisfaction with the job Carrick has been doing.
United currently sit third in the table, which is seen internally as the best position that could reasonably be expected given the squad and the circumstances of this season.
However, the club have been cautious about making him the favourite for the job or offering any assurances beyond this initial spell in charge.
The aim has always been to remain open to new ideas through to the summer.
United’s defeat to Newcastle United this week served as a reminder that the team remains fragile and still requires further squad evolution.
Carrick remains focused on the job at hand, but over the next two months his bosses will determine whether there are stronger options for the long term.
