Get the FREE Mirror Football newsletter by email with the day's key headlines and transfer news Sign up Thank you for subscribing We have more newsletters Show me See our privacy notice Invalid Email

Manchester United want Pep Guardiola to succeed Sir Alex Ferguson.

United have asked the 41-year-old Spaniard to keep them informed of his future intentions following his ­decision to quit Barcelona.

And Liverpool are on the brink of going Dutch with Louis van Gaal joining them as their new Director of ­Football and bringing a posse of Dutch coaches and fitness experts with him.

Chelsea have led the chase for Guardiola and owner Roman ­Abramovich wants him to oversee the next stage in Chelsea’s rebuilding.

But Guardiola’s also receptive to the idea of ­following in Fergie’s ­footsteps at Old Trafford.

(Image: David Ramos)

And there have been ­suggestions that Ferguson could finally call time on his glorious career at the end of next season.

That would allow ­Guardiola to enjoy a ­year-long sabbatical before being tasked with succeeding a man who has twice lifted the Champions League and won 12 Premier League titles in more than 25 years at the helm.

United chief executive David Gill knows time is ticking down on Ferguson’s reign as the Reds’ boss approaches his 71st birthday.

The belief inside Old Trafford and Stamford Bridge is that Guardiola has the temperament and talent to take the club forward.

Guardiola announced, after the Champions League exit at the hands of Chelsea, that he needed a complete break from the game to recharge his batteries.

United’s history and stature around the world will be a big attraction.

But Abramovich made Guardiola his No.1 target months ago and does not want to miss out.

(Image: Getty)

With Van Gaal set for the role as football overseer, Liverpool have made a second approach to Brendan Rodgers over their vacant manager’s position. Owners Fenway Sports Group are hopeful an appointment can be made this week.

Having spoken to Wigan boss Roberto Martinez in Miami on Thursday, FSG are now desperate to meet face-to-face with Rodgers before making a final decision.

Rodgers turned down the opportunity to be part of Liverpool’s first round of interviews, but he is now understood to be ready to speak.

The new ­Anfield ­manager will have to work alongside Van Gaal, who is expected to be appointed this week.

He is set to bring with him coach Andries Jonker, ­goal-keeping coach Frans Hoek and physio Ruud van Dyke.

All were part of the ­backroom team he put together at Bayern Munich.

(Image: Getty)

Other Exclusive stories...