The wait goes on for Manchester United supporters, but according to Sky Sports, Jose Mourinho will be their new manager by Friday afternoon.
After Louis van Gaal was sacked on Monday, it was believed to be merely a matter of time before the ‘Special One’ was to be appointed his successor.
However, three days later and no official confirmation has yet arrived, although based on the latest reports, it appears as though it is edging ever closer.
Sky Sports claim progress was made on Wednesday over Mourinho’s image rights issues, and that the other outstanding obstacles would be knocked down before a contract is signed between the two parties on Friday.
It has been a delicate negotiation for the two sides given their conflict of interests, with United and Mourinho sponsoring rival companies and in turn that has needed to be addressed before they can officially reach an agreement.
Meanwhile, the Portuguese tactician’s name is believed to be registered as a trademark of Chelsea FC, although that matter is understood to now be concluded, as per Sky.
Mourinho will hope that their is a speedy resolution to talks, as he will want to get back into management and start his new role as soon as possible with a view of preparing the club for next season.
That will likely involve scouting and negotiating deals for transfer targets, as well as working on pre-season plans and determining which players currently at the club will feature for him next season.
It is clear that the former Chelsea boss will become the new United manager, and the club’s supporters won’t have to wait much longer before it is made official.