Jose Mourinho: U-turn would cost Manchester United £15m as club 'agrees preliminary contract'
The former Chelsea manager is expected to replace Louis van Gaal this summer
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Manchester United have agreed a preliminary contract with Jose Mourinho that will see the club pay the Portuguese manager £15m if they choose not to employ him, according to reports.
Spanish newspaper El Pais claim that a deal has been agreed that reserves the former Chelsea manager for United should they wish to make him their next manager this summer.
It is not a final agreement - but ensures Mourinho cannot take another job. The contract stipulates that should United fail to offer Mourinho a final contract by May 1 they will pay him £5million in compensation and then another £10m if there is no offer by June 1.
Mourinho is the overwhelming favourite to replace Louis van Gaal, should - as expected - the current Manchester United manager have his contract terminated this summer. Current assistant manager and club legend Ryan Giggs is also in the frame, but his lack of experience and Manchester United's desperation to compete for trophies is counting against the Welshman.
Mourinho, who was sacked by Chelsea in December, has been toying with the press about his next move. He has consistently said he expects to return to management this summer - but has refused to say where.
"Do I miss my football? Yes I miss it. But I look forward to the future, I want my football back and time flies and July will be just around the corner," the former Real Madrid and Inter Milan manager said in an interview with BT Sport aired earlier this week.
"Yes, for sure [I will have a club in the summer]. I don’t know where. Since I left Chelsea in December I was lucky enough to not just have options but good options. But I made the decision to wait. July, mid-July the new pre-season starts and somewhere I want to be there."
Manchester United take on Manchester City this afternoon.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments