TALK OF THE TOWN: So is Michael...

TALK OF THE TOWN: So is Michael Jackson going to have a new manager or not? That’s Topic A in record-biz circles this week, now that most execs are getting over their shock and dismay at seeing their names in (or not in) the dreaded “Hit Men” expose, which has already jumped to No. 8 on The Times’ best-seller list. Initially, the hottest contenders were the top management duos of Stiefel & Edwards and Lippman & Kahane. But with L&K; having split up and S&E; involved with Prince (whom Jackson considers a pop rival) a new name has emerged among industry insiders as a leading candidate. The hot ticket? Veteran manager Sandy Gallin, who handles the likes of Neil Diamond, Dolly Parton and Andrew Dice Clay. Gallin is also considered a favorite by some observers because of his friendship with David Geffen, Jackson’s confidante and close adviser. Meanwhile, execs at CBS Records, Jackson’s label, are nervously awaiting an upcoming meeting with Bert Fields, the influential (and combative) entertainment attorney who is handling Jackson’s renegotiations with CBS.