Ex-Aston Villa striker gives verdict on whether Unai Emery will join Manchester United

Darren Bent has backed Unai Emery to snub Manchester United and finish the job at Aston Villa this summer.

Reports have suggested the Red Devils could make a move for the Spaniard should they sack Erik ten Hag. Sir Jim Ratcliffe has assumed sporting control at Old Trafford and is taking steps to build the club in his image.

The Ineos billionaire snatched Omar Berrada as CEO from Manchester City and all but lured Newcastle United’s sporting director Dan Ashworth. Ten Hag remains the last key appointment yet to be changed by the new regime.

Combined with an underwhelming campaign, many believe the former Ajax manager is on borrowed time at the Red Devils. Bookmakers place Emery as a long shot to become the next Man United boss.

Villa fans would undoubtedly be devastated if the 52-year-old were to leave at the end of the season. He has transformed the club from relegation candidates to Champions League contenders in 18 months - and can also lift the Conference League.

United are nine points behind Villa in the Premier League but retain the pull of a global powerhouse. Speaking to the Cycling GK YouTube channel, ex-striker Bent predicted Emery would stay put if United made their move.

“I almost feel like, with Unai Emery, I’m sure he wants another crack at a top job,” Bent said. “He had a crack at Arsenal, I think it came too soon for him after Wenger. I think if Villa upped his money, it just seems more stable.

“I know Manchester United in terms of the size of the club, arguably the biggest in the world, you’ve also got to look at the now. This is not the same Manchester United from 10 years ago, it’s not the same club. They’re completely different to what they were. I think he’d stay.”