Manchester United's interest in Mauricio Pochettino is one of the worst-kept secrets in football.
Ever since the Argentine was seen dining with Sir Alex Ferguson back in 2016, he has seen himself linked to the Old Trafford hot seat.
And it was only a matter of time before those rumours would start to whirl again given United's poor start to the season.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has overseen two defeats in their opening three league matches, losing their opening game at home to Crystal Palace and subsequently being thrashed 6-1 by Tottenham.
In between those humblings, his side were fortunate to beat Brighton, the Seagulls hitting the woodwork five times and only succumbing to a penalty given after the full-time whistle.
How much longer can Solskjaer continue?
According to the Mirror, Ed Woodward is fully prepared to act should results not improve - but depending on how things transpire across Manchester, he may need to act fast if he wants to appoint Pochettino.
City also monitoring Poch
It's claimed Manchester City are also keen on the former Spurs boss, who has been out of work since his sacking last November.
Pochettino has spent almost a year recuperating and has confirmed he wants to stay in the Premier League.
City have had their own problems on the pitch, losing 5-2 at home to Leicester City and failing to beat newly-promoted Leeds before the international break.
There is little sign that they have bridged the gap that saw them fall so far behind Liverpool last season. Equally, there is little sign that Pep Guardiola wants to continue the project.
The Catalan has just seven months left on his contract and is reportedly not showing interest in committing his future.
Guardiola's wife is spending most of her time back in Barcelona with her own business, which has only added to the feeling that this will be his final season at the Etihad.
After all, the former Barca and Bayern Munich manager has never spent this long in a job previously.
Solskjaer on borrowed time
It all means there could be a tug-of-war for Pochettino's services, though United's need seems to be more urgent.
The Red Devils want to give Solskjaer time, aware that he has not had a proper pre-season with his players and that he was let down in the transfer market.
However, per the same report, Paul Pogba's comments on international duty about his hopes of playing for Real Madrid have reinforced the view that Solskjaer lacks authority.
Whether it's with United or City, it seems only a matter of time before Pochettino is back in English football.