Report: Liverpool wanted Louis van Gaal

Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal reportedly held discussions over becoming the director of football of Liverpool two years ago.

The Dutchman, who took charge of United earlier this summer, was believed to be a leading contender for the post at Anfield as the Merseysiders adapted to life without Kenny Dalglish at the helm.

However, Brendan Rodgers, who was eventually appointed manager of the club, insisted that he wanted to work with a coaching team, rather than one man, which ended Liverpool's interest in Van Gaal, according to The Mirror.

Speaking to reporters, Rodgers said: "I'm not sure how many people the club spoke to, but for me coming in, I was always going to work with a team of people, rather than a director of football.

"I felt it was important, with all the work that needed to be done, and the size of the job I took on, that I needed to have the full responsibility to do that job, and I think the owners backed that."

The two managers will meet in Miami this evening as their sides contest the International Champions Cup final.