The threat to the Dutchman’s position increased following Tuesday’s 1-0 Champions League home defeat to Bayern Munich.

United crashed out of Europe with their lowest-ever group-stage points tally of FOUR.

And they did not even drop into the Europa League after finishing BOTTOM of Group A.

Ten Hag’s flops, who were also hammered 3-0 by Bournemouth in the Prem last Saturday, were booed off as their season hit a new low.

And a heavy loss on Sunday at bitter rivals Liverpool — where United got humiliated 7-0 in March — could be the final straw for under-fire Ten Hag.

Jose Mourinho was sacked by the Red Devils following a 3-1 loss to Jurgen Klopp’s side in December 2018.

Potter, 48, has not managed since being sacked by Chelsea in April after less than a season in charge.

But Ratcliffe remains a huge fan of the former Swansea and Brighton boss and wanted him at French side Nice.

The Ineos chief is set to buy 25 per cent of United next week and will immediately take over football operations.

Potter turned down the chance to succeed Alex Neil as manager of Championship side Stoke this week.

It is understood he is only prepared to return to the dugout if a major job came up.

Ten Hag is United’s fifth permanent manager since Sir Alex Ferguson retired following his 2012-13 Prem title triumph.

But the 53-year-old Dutchman is heading the way of his predecessors, despite a good first season in charge.

The former Ajax boss finished third in the Premier League last season, reached both domestic cup finals and won the Carabao Cup — United’s first silverware in six years.

This term they have gone backwards, losing 12 of their 24 games in all competitions.

Captain Bruno Fernandes misses Sunday’s Anfield showdown through suspension, while defenders Harry Maguire and Luke Shaw are doubts after getting injured against Bayern.

Off the pitch, United will also take a financial hit of more than £20million following their Champions League exit.

It is believed they budget to reach the quarter-finals, so will lose out on matchday income and TV money as well as participation and performance fees.

3Ratcliffe is a big fan of Potter