Jose Mourinho still expects to join Man United

Posted Tuesday, April 12, 2016 by squawka.com

Jose Mourinho is still preparing to join Manchester United at the end of the season, despite Louis van Gaal's own belief he will remain at the club.

Mourinho has been linked with the Old Trafford hot seat for some time and although Van Gaal still has one year remaining on his contract, the Portuguese is confident he will replace the Dutchman, according to ESPN FC.

While Van Gaal is confident of his future, the report indicates this stems from internal politics within the club, and that the former Barcelona boss has yet to learn his fate.

Executive vice chairman Ed Woodward is a close friend of Mourinho's agent Jorge Mendes, and while there is still several members of the United hierarchy who are against appointing the former Chelsea boss, Mourinho's representatives have already held talks with the club over his role, as reported by ESPN.

The report also indicates Mourinho has outlined five signings he wants to make when he takes charge, with Tottenham Hotspur's Harry Kane and Everton's John Stones at the top of the list, while Zlatan Ibrahimovic - who has reportedly shown his interest in signing for united if Van Gaal leaves - is also a target.

United were put to the sword against Spurs on Sunday, with three second-half goals from Dele Alli, Toby Alderweireld and Erik Lamela securing a 3-0 win, which now leaves the Red Devils four points behind rivals Manchester City in the pursuit of a top-four spot.

Van Gaal's side have really struggled for goals this season, with their top goalscorer Anthony Martial (eight) yet to reach double figures.

The club's supporters have grown increasingly frustrated with the Dutchman's tactics, and a loss to West Ham in the FA Cup quarter-final replay this week could have a big impact on Van Gaal's future at the club.