This article is more than 18 years old

This article is more than 18 years old

Speculation is mounting that Louis van Gaal will be named as the new Manchester United manager within the next few weeks.

United today refused to deny reports from Holland which claimed that Van Gaal, who officially steps down from his job as Holland manager on January 31, will be unveiled as Sir Alex Ferguson's successor.

The news has prompted a rash of bets on the Dutchman - causing betting firm Blue Square to suspend the market on who will take over as United boss.

Last year Van Gaal made it known he was wanted by United, telling reporters: "I knew I was first on the list last year.

"I don't have any contact with them now because I am coach of the national team but I can imagine that a club like Manchester United are still interested in Louis van Gaal."

The newspaper reports in Holland have suggested that Co Adriaanse, who was sacked as Ajax manager in November, will be in charge of United's youth team - a position he held at Ajax for five years.

Van Gaal, 51, was regarded as one of the best managers in the world when he lead Ajax to the European Cup in the mid-90s.

But after winning the Spanish Primera Division with Barcelona in 1999 his star has fallen. He was sacked from Barcelona in 2000 and also failed to lead Holland to the World Cup.