George Graham has also thrown his hat into the ring after being dismissed by Tottenham.

Curbishley is taking a diplomatic stance on the matter while United will resist any attempts to lure McClaren away from Old Trafford.

Curbishley said he had turned down two offers to leave Charlton in the last two years.

"I won't deny it is nice to be talked about," he said. If you are doing something right and we've had a fantastic four or five years, you are going to be linked with jobs.

"But if you are talking about moving off, you have to be offered that chance and to think about it.

"As of yet West Ham have not offered me that chance to even think about. That's the bottom line."

With manager Sir Alex Ferguson leaving the club for good next season, the last thing United supporters need is for McClaren to quit as well. It is understood no formal approaches have been made for McClaren, whose qualities are much admired by his boss.

"Steve has had offers," said Ferguson. "I can't make up his mind for him. He is his own man and he should be in this respect.

"He gets respect from the players. He is a terrific coach and has good observational qualities. He'll do well."

Graham is anxious to return to top-flight football next season and maintains he still has enthusiasm for the game.

"Having being sacked by Tottenham with only part of the job done, I want to show I can still win silverware with the right club," he said.

"I want any club I manage to have the same vision and desire to win honours at the highest level that I still have.

"West Ham have the nucleus of an exciting and talented squad and the potential to go on and achieve success if the right decisions are made."