Valencia have emerged as a shock rival to Manchester United in the race for Jose Mourinho.

The former Chelsea manager has long been courted by the Red Devils, but the Spanish club are poised to approach the Portuguese after sacking Gary Neville on Wednesday

Valencia have emerged as a shock rival to Manchester United in the race for Jose Mourinho, according to The Sun.

The Spanish club sacked Gary Neville on Wednesday and serious discussions have been held with Mourinho's camp over him taking over at the Mestalla.

Mourinho would be handed a transfer budget of £100 million along with a salary of £15m-per-year and, though he would prefer to replace Louis van Gaal at Old Trafford, he has yet to receive a written offer from United.

United are said to have spoken to Mourinho's agent, Jorge Mendes, but they remain hesitant to make a concrete approach for the former Chelsea boss.