Jose Mourinho would ‘love’ to manage Manchester United

The Portuguese was relieved from his duties as Chelsea manager on Thursday after a tumultuous start to the season that had seen last season’s champions lose nine of their opening 16 games.

However, the former Real Madrid manager is not short of offers, report ESPN, with Mourinho’s agent, Jorge Mendes, said to be considering offers for next season.

Mourinho - who was said to be very interested in becoming United manager when Sir Alex Ferguson stepped down in 2013 – favours taking over at Old Trafford, claim the Manchester Evening News.

MEN cite quotes from the Sun’s Rob Beasley, who was speaking to Radio Five Live.

"He'd love to manage United," said Beasley.

“He thought - and Fergie thought - he was getting the job when Fergie was leaving, they had spoken about it. It seemed Fergie was setting Jose up to take over. But he ended up back at Chelsea,” added Beasley.

"Manchester United, he would love it. Imagine Jose Mourinho walking out in front of the Stretford End and giving them the pump fists. 'What can we do? You're the 12th man.' The fans would go mental."

United have briefed journalists that they not only expect current manager Louis van Gaal to see out his current contract but that they hope to persuade the Dutchman into extending his contract beyond 2017.

[STORY: Where next for Jose Mourinho? United, PSG, Munich?]