Manchester United gave up on any hope of hiring Pep Guardiola to replace boss Louis van Gaal months ago, according to Old Trafford insiders.

United were quick to dismiss reports that they held a meeting with Guardiola in Paris last week, as they continue to insist they have no interest in trying to lure the Spaniard to Old Trafford.

That is because the United hierarchy were made aware of a gentleman's agreement for the ex-Barcelona boss to move to Manchester City as early as last August.

United have been keen to stress that they have no desire to recruit the two-time Champions League winner, as they are keen to ensure it does not look like they missed out on a target to succeed Van Gaal.

Meanwhile, there was no news from Old Trafford's top brass in the hours after United's latest disastrous performance at Old Trafford, which ended in a 1-0 victory for Southampton.

United were booed off following another limp attacking display, with Van Gaal accepting the home supporters were right to jeer his team.

The fresh calls for Van Gaal to be removed from his post will have been heard by United officials, but it remains to be seen whether they are ready to act on the evident desire for change among the club's supporters.

Online Editors