Champions League key to Manchester United, Jose Mourinho deal?

A deal that would see Jose Mourinho take charge of Manchester United reportedly hinges on whether or not the team qualify for next season's Champions League.

Speculation yesterday claimed that the Portuguese coach was confident that an agreement will be reached with the Red Devils in the near future.

However, the Manchester Evening News reports that the 53-year-old is only confident that he will replace current boss Louis van Gaal in the Old Trafford dugout if United fail to finish in the top four.

In 2014, David Moyes was relieved of his duties by the United board two days after it had been made mathematically certain that the club were not going to be participating in the following campaign's European Cup.

As it stands, Van Gaal's men are six points adrift of the Champions League places with 13 matches left to play.