Man Utd News: Mourinho update, Atletico Madrid win £19m race, Van Gaal 'failure

Jose Mourinho deal could be 48 hours away

Manchester United could appoint Jose Mourinho as early as Monday, according to reports.

Louis van Gaal will attempt to salvage United's season in part today when he leads the side out against Crystal Palace in the FA Cup final (5.30pm).

However, The Mirror claim the United hierarchy have already decided to sack him irrespective of the result.

Mourinho will then be installed on Monday as the new manager, finally landing the role he is said to have been waiting for since being dismissed by Chelsea in December.

The final straw for the Dutchman has reportedly been members of the dressing room losing their patience with his tactical approach.

And with players said to be unhappy, executive vice-chairman is ready to fire Van Gaal.

United miss out on Gaitan

Nicolas Gaitan is reportedly on the verge of sealing a move to Atletico Madrid.

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Jose Mourinho, Louis van Gaal and Nicolas Gaitan

United have reportedly been tracking the player for the majority of the season and are said to have had £23million bid for him turned down in January.

But now the Argentinian is set to join Diego Simeone's side in a switch worth £19m.

Gaitan was said to be in tears on the bench having been subbed off against Maritimo, which Portuguese media claim is the final proof that the deal will go through imminently.

Ferdinand: FA Cup cannot save Van Gaal

Rio Ferdinand believes Louis van Gaal has failed at Old Trafford because he has not qualified for the Champions League.

The FA Cup might be a trophy but the Champions League is the Holy Grail now. 

"It is sad to say but it outweighs winning at Wembley.

“The Champions League is such a big tournament in terms of financial gain and exposure. 

"You have to be in there.

“Manchester United not being in it does not seem right.