Louis van Gaal reportedly learned that Jose Mourinho was in line to replace him at Manchester United during a phone conversation with the Portuguese boss.
After much speculation, Van Gaal was sacked this evening, with Mourinho expected to be named his successor within the next 48 hours.
However, while the Dutchman only officially discovered his fate today, The Mirror claims that he was informed of United's interest in Mourinho by the man himself within the last two weeks.
The report adds that Mourinho, 53, made the call in an attempt to preserve his good relationship with Van Gaal, which dates back to the time that the pair worked together at Barcelona.
Talks between United and Mourinho's representative Jorge Mendes are expected to take place tomorrow.
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