Erik ten Hag, a manager target for Manchester United, is taking English lessons ahead of talks about taking over at Old Trafford this summer.
Ten Hag is studying English, in order to ensure he has a good command of the language ahead of a prospective move to the Premier League this summer. Following recent internal negotiations, Ajax is said to be aware of Ten Hag’s decision to quit the club at the end of the season.
The Dutchman is thought to have his heart set on a move to United at the conclusion of the season. But his commitment to learning English fluently will serve him well if other opportunities arise.
Ten Hag, who would accompany his coach Mitchel van der Gaag to England, is one of the leading candidates to succeed Ralf Rangnick at Old Trafford next season, alongside Mauricio Pochettino.
Carlo Ancelotti, the manager of Real Madrid and formerly of Everton and Chelsea, has also been discussed in connection with the job.
Ten Hag was a candidate for the job of new Tottenham head coach last summer. But well-placed sources indicate that the language barrier was an impediment during negotiations.
United are expected to talk to Ten Hag about the role in the coming weeks, and the fact that he is brushing up on his English will help him land the job.