Senior club officials are preparing to recommend Carrick to minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe after his strong performances since taking charge in January following the dismissal of Ruben Amorim.
Manchester United had originally planned to wait until the end of the season before choosing a new manager.
But Carrick’s remarkable results and growing influence behind the scenes appear to have convinced the club’s leadership that he is the right man to lead the team forward.
Chief executive Omar Berrada and director of football Jason Wilcox are understood to have reached a decision and are expected to present their recommendation to Ratcliffe this week.
If approved, formal talks with Carrick will begin before an official announcement is made.
Carrick has transformed United’s season since taking over on January 13. Under his leadership, the club has won 10 of 15 matches and suffered only two defeats. His impact lifted United from seventh place to third in the Premier League, securing a return to Europe’s top club competition next season.
No Premier League side has collected more points than Manchester United since Carrick stepped into the role. His early days as caretaker boss were especially impressive, with victories over rivals Manchester City and Arsenal helping him win his first four games in charge.
Although a seven-match unbeaten run ended in March, Carrick quickly steadied the team again with important wins against Aston Villa, Chelsea and Liverpool during the final stretch of the campaign.
United had struggled badly under Amorim before his dismissal, with disappointing performances and disagreements over tactics creating problems inside the club. Carrick, however, has restored calm and confidence both on the pitch and behind the scenes.
Club officials have reportedly been impressed not only by results but also by Carrick’s leadership style and commitment to youth development. Several players are also believed to support the idea of him taking the job permanently.
The former midfielder has been heavily involved in discussions about future recruitment and has repeatedly spoken about building long-term success at Old Trafford.
Manchester United did consider other candidates for the role. England manager Thomas Tuchel decided to remain with the national team, while Luis Enrique continues to stay committed to Paris Saint-Germain.
Carrick’s final two games of the season will come against Nottingham Forest at Old Trafford on May 17 before a final-day trip to face Brighton & Hove Albion on May 24.
