Van Gaal facing a grilling

Louis van Gaal faced the media today for the first time since speculation began that he is set to be replaced by Jose Mourinho.

Mourinho has been linked with the Manchester United manager's job over the last week following his dismissal at Chelsea.

Van Gaal is under increasing pressure after United’s six–match winless run and departure from the Champions League.

Mourinho is understood to be ready to take the top job at United should the board decide to sack Van Gaal, who is halfway through his three–year contract. But the Portuguese's agent Jorge Mendes denied a deal has been struck between his client and the United board.

Mendes insisted an "official proposal" had not been tabled by United, but the super agent did not pour cold water on claims the former Chelsea manager is set for the hot seat at Old Trafford.

"There is nothing," Mendes said. "We don't know what will happen in the future, but now there is no agreement. There isn't an official proposal either.”

Van Gaal, who worked with Mourinho at Barcelona, was expected to receive questions on the Portuguese and his own job security at his weekly press conference in Carrington this afternoon.