Jose Mourinho would consider working outside of the Premier League in his next job, with the Portuguese yet to be contacted by Manchester United regarding potentially replacing Louis van Gaal as manager.

Mourinho’s first choice is United should there be a vacancy, but given the uncertainty over Van Gaal’s future and the club’s reluctance to so far embark upon even preliminary discussions the 53-year-old is closing no option off.

Mourinho would be minded to accept a position outside England, should that prove his next-best career move. He is also open to managing another elite level club in Portuguese football though there appears little prospect of an opportunity arising in the near future.

Ed Woodward, United's executive vice-chairman, remains fully supportive of Van Gaal and given the recent improvement in displays and results there is hope the Dutchman could still guide United to a Champions League berth.

With 13 matches left Van Gaal’s side is six points behind fourth-placed Manchester City. If Van Gaal was to take United to fourth position or better it is understood there is no guarantee that Woodward would sack him.

However if the club does not qualify for the Champions League Van Gaal would almost certainly be removed, and though there are reservations among the Old Trafford hierarchy regarding Mourinho, he is in pole position to take over.

Pep Guardiola's arrival as Manchester City head coach on July 1st, in place of Manuel Pellegrini, has concentrated the need for United to have a manager of similar experience and stature in place. While Mourinho certainly fits this criterion, it means that Ryan Giggs, who is Van Gaal's No2, will almost certainly not be seriously considered as Van Gaal's permanent successor should he leave the club.

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