Jose Mourinho is ‘poised’ to become the next Manchester United manager, according to a report from the beIN sports network.In a leak that will not be welcomed by current United boss Louis van Gaal
ahead of the FA Cup final, the channel are reporting that their sources believe Mourinho will be confirmed as United manager in the coming days.
The long-running saga over Van Gaal’s future at United will be clarified imminently, amid increasing speculation that the Dutchman will be relieved of his duties even if he wins the FA Cup final against Crystal Palace.
A report earlier this week suggested Van Gaal and Mourinho could work together at United next season, but Man Utd insiders swiftly dismissed that idea and now there are suggestions that Mourinho will be confirmed as the next United boss imminently.
beIN Sports - who have ties with Mourinho’s adviser Jorge Mendes - are reporting that the former Chelsea manager is “edging closer to becoming the next Manchester United manager”, with Old Trafford chiefs set to clarify Van Gaal’s position swiftly after his date with Palace boss Alan Pardew at Wembley.
The timing of this news revives memories of the story that broke on the eve of the 2013 FA Cup final confirming Manuel Pellegrini would replace Roberto Mancini as Manchester City manager.
Van Gaal still has one year remaining on his current contract, but Spanish newspaper AS reports that an announcement will be made on Saturday shortly after the FA Cup final.
The report in AS claims that talks between Mourinho’s agent, Jorge Mendes, and United’s executive vice-chairman, Ed Woodward, concluded during the week, with Mourinho signing a pre-contract to replace Van Gaal for the 2016/17 season.