Jose Mourinho to Manchester United: £15million-per-year deal 'agreed in principle'

The Portuguese coach has been heavily linked with Old Trafford since leaving Chelsea in December

Former Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho (Getty Images)

Jose Mourinho and Manchester United have reportedly ‘agreed in principle’ a three-year £15million-a-season deal to replace current manager Louis van Gaal.

The Independent on Sunday revealed that the Portuguese coach, who left Chelsea in December, was ‘confident’ of taking over at Old Trafford.

Now, according to report by the Daily Mirror, the two parties have settled on personal terms, with Mourinho keen to make some major changes.

The two-time Champions League-winning head coach apparently wishes to work alongside a director of football, with Atletico Madrid sporting director Andrea Berta earmarked to join him in Manchester.

Berta, who is believed to be connected to Mourinho’s agent Jorge Mendes, would take responsibility for negotiating the recruitment of player, which is currently the remit of executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward.

Speculation linking Mourinho with the position at Old Trafford has intensified over recent weeks, particularly since the confirmation of Pep Guardiola’s impending arrival at Manchester City.

While doubts over the former Chelsea manager’s style of play and antagonistic behaviour persist among members of United’s boardroom, there is a growing sense that the club’s hand has been forced by the appointment at the Etihad Stadium.

Van Gaal, whose side currently sits fifth in the Premier League table, six points behind fourth-placed City, has been repeatedly condemned the speculation surrounding his future.

After Sunday’s 1-1 draw with Chelsea, the 64-year-old Dutchman criticised a journalist for broaching the subject, asking: “Why do the club have to deny it when you are creating stories?

“You haven't spoken to Ed Woodward or the Glazers, so you are inventing this story. I don't have to answer this question."