PSG coach Mauricio Pochettino will save the club millions should he move to Manchester United.

PSG could be spared a compensation bill of at least €18m if Pochettino was handed the United job.

United kickstarted a formal interview process on Monday when they met with Ajax coach Erik ten Hag ahead of planned talks with Pochettino and the other main candidates for the post, Julen Lopetegui and Luis Enrique.

Like Ten Hag, who is expected to leave Ajax at the end of the season, Pochettino has ambitions to manage United and, at this stage, the former Spurs coach is expected to provide the stiffest competition to the Dutchman for the role.

Pochettino is expected to leave PSG in one form or another following the club's disappointing exit to Real Madrid in the Champions League Round of 16 this month.

But the French club could avoid a huge pay-off to Pochettino if United swooped for the Argentine and the prospect of him being sacked was averted, says the Sunday World.

It is understood that Pochettino – who has just over 15 months remaining on his contract – and his staff would be entitled to a compensation package of between £15m and £20m (€24m) if jettisoned. Contrary to some suggestions, there is not believed to be a release clause in Pochettino's deal this summer.