MAURICIO POCHETTINO will not commit to Real Madrid — because he is waiting to see if Manchester City come calling next summer.

The Spanish giants were keen to strike a deal with Pochettino so he would be ready to step in and succeed Zinedine Zidane.

But the former Tottenham manager snubbed their offer as he also wants the chance to return to the Premier League.

SunSport understands only two positions interest him in England, Manchester United and champions City.

Pochettino, 47, is already the leading contender for United chiefs.

And there is a growing feeling Pep Guardiola may quit City at the end of the season despite having a year left on his contract.

The prospect of getting United back to the top with money to spend excites Argentine Poch.

City’s poor form and the imminent departure of Mikel Arteta to Arsenal has raised fresh talk that Guardiola might walk.

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WHAT A JEN

Pochettino has been watching — acutely aware he may now be a serious option.

That has led to him snubbing the money Real were prepared to pay to be their manager-in-waiting.

Jose Mourinho turned his back on a similar deal — worth around £12million — to succeed Pochettino at Spurs.