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Jose Mourinho to Manchester United: Portuguese might replace Louis van Gaal 'this month'

Concern growing over current form which saw club lose to Sunderland at the weekend 

Simon Rice
Monday 15 February 2016 09:16 GMT
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Former Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho
Former Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho

Manchester United could appoint Jose Mourinho as manager before the club's next Premier League game, according to reports.

The former Chelsea manager has already held talks with the club about succeeding Louis van Gaal and the Independent understands that the Portuguese coach is confident of becoming the next Old Trafford boss.

Manchester United had been keen for a smooth and orderly transition of power and were understood to be hoping any change of management be conducted in the close season.

However, results have become alarming, with defeat to Sunderland at the weekend striking a huge blow to the club's chances of qualifying for the Champions League. With just 12 games of the season remaining, the club are six points behind the top four places.

According to The Sun, the club's board now think they have nothing to lose by appointing Mourinho this month. Any change could even be before their next Premier League game, which is against Arsenal on February 28. Prior to that the club play Danish side Midtjylland twice in the Europa League last-32 and meet Shrewsbury in the FA Cup.

In addition, Manchester United could be encouraged to act amid reports over the weekend which suggested Mourinho was growing anxious over the lack of assurances from the club.

After defeat to Sunderland, Van Gaal appeared to concede that qualifying for the Champions League through the Premier League looked unlikely.

Jose Mourinho shakes head when asked about Man Utd job

"It will be very difficult (to finish in the top four)," said Van Gaal. "It is still possible, but it is very difficult."

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