José Mourinho would consider working outside of the Premier League in his next job, with the Portuguese yet to be contacted by Manchester United regarding potentially replacing Louis van Gaal as manager.

Mourinho’s first choice is United should there be a vacancy but given the uncertainty over Van Gaal’s future and the club’s reluctance to so far embark upon even preliminary discussions, the 53-year-old is closing no option off.

The former Chelsea manager would also be minded to accept a position outside England should that prove his next-best career move. He is also open to managing another elite-level club in Portuguese football though there appears little prospect of an opportunity arising there in the near future.

Ed Woodward, United’s executive vice-chairman, remains fully supportive of Van Gaal and given the recent improvement in displays and results, there is hope the Dutchman could still guide United to a Champions League place.

With 13 matches remaining Van Gaal’s side are six points behind fourth-placed Manchester City. If Van Gaal was to take United to fourth position or better it is understood Woodward might decide to let Van Gaal serve out the final year of his contract.

However if the team do not qualify for the Champions League Van Gaal would almost certainly be removed, and though there are reservations among the Old Trafford hierarchy regarding the candidacy of Mourinho, he remains in pole position to take over.

Pep Guardiola’s arrival as Manchester City head coach on 1 July, in place of the discarded Manuel Pellegrini, has concentrated the need for United to have a manager of similar experience and stature in place.

While Mourinho fits this criterion Ryan Giggs, who is Van Gaal’s No2, is unlikely to be seriously considered as the Dutchman’s permanent successor should he move on next summer.