Manchester United are looking at alternative options due to potential work permit issues with Robin van Persie.

Ajax coach Erik ten Hag is the frontrunner to takeover as the new manager at Old Trafford.

Former United striker van Persie is a candidate to join Erik ten Hag's backroom staff.

However, ESPN reports that the 38-year-old will not be able to secure a UK work permit.

All overseas players and coaching staff must be granted a Governing Body Exemption to work in the Premier League of EFL, as per post-Brexit rules in the United Kingdom.

Van Persie's lack of top-level coaching experience would work against him in any application process.

The Netherlands legend has coached at Feyenoord since May 2020, but has lacked experience coaching for a prolonged period at senior level.

The report from ESPN states that Steve McClaren and Rene Meulensteen, both former assistants of Sir Alex Ferguson, are being considered to serve alongside ten Hag.