Manchester United are reportedly considering replacing manager Louis van Gaal with Jose Mourinho before the end of February.

The former Chelsea boss, who was sacked by the Blues in December, has been heavily linked with the Red Devils due to the team's inconsistent results in the Premier League.

While many reports have suggested that Mourinho will set up shop at Old Trafford once the season comes to a close in the summer, The Sun claims that the self-proclaimed 'Special One' could be appointed as early as next week.

Doubts over Van Gaal's long-term position with United grew at the weekend when his side suffered a 2-1 defeat to Sunderland at the Stadium of Light.

The result has hampered United's chances of qualifying for next season's Champions League competition as they are six points adrift of the top four with 12 games left to play.

United will play Danish side FC Midtjylland twice in the Europa League and Shrewsbury Town in the FA Cup before taking on Arsenal in the Premier League on February 28.