Scholes considers Conte a clear step above the other names being discussed, arguing that his qualities outweigh concerns about his formidable reputation.
Manchester United have shortlisted Conte alongside Julian Nagelsmann and Eddie Howe, with all three managers currently available.
"You'd have to pick a manager who you think will get us back to being a competitive team for the Premier League. Out of them three, Antonio Conte's the man..." Scholes told The Good, The Bad and The Football podcast.
"He's made noises that he wants to come and I'm pretty sure the club would have spoke to all three of them. I can't understand why he'd want this job because I don't think the team's good enough for him, personally."
He added: "I think Conte's the best one around. When I'm talking best in class and you talk them four, I think Antonio Conte's miles ahead of all of them. You think Juventus, he went to Napoli and goes and wins the league with them."
However, the club's decision-making process could prove complicated, as reports suggest senior officials are divided over their preferred candidate. Director of football Jason Wilcox is understood to favour Howe, while recruitment director Christopher Vivell would rather see Nagelsmann appointed.
Meanwhile, Carrick remains in charge after emerging from crisis discussions with United's hierarchy at Carrington on Monday. His position is still precarious, although he is continuing preparations for Saturday's Premier League meeting with Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.
Conte, who has previously managed both Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur, is reportedly keen to take charge at Old Trafford. However, his appointment could come with significant conditions, as he would expect to install his own backroom team and exercise authority over transfer decisions.
Michael Carrick has admitted Manchester United's 3-0 home defeat by Bournemouth was a painful experience, with the head coach acknowledging that his team had failed to deliver the response their supporters wanted.
Manchester United's struggles continued with a heavy 3-0 home defeat to Bournemouth in a one-sided Premier League encounter on Sunday afternoon.
Under-pressure Manchester United head coach Michael Carrick has pushed back against criticism of his side's work rate and pressing ahead of Sunday's Premier League clash with Bournemouth.
Manchester United head coach Michael Carrick will be looking for an immediate response when his side host Bournemouth at Old Trafford, after their humiliating Champions League defeat to Como.
