Manchester United are expected to confirm the worst-kept non-secret in football as they appoint Jose Mourinho as their permanent manager this afternoon.

But no announcement has been forthcoming from the club, and Press Association Sport has been told the deal is not yet complete.

United had been heavily linked with Mourinho following the dismissal of Louis van Gaal on Monday, just two days after the Dutchman lifted a record-equalling 12th FA Cup.

Mourinho was sacked before Christmas last season after a run of poor results with Chelsea saw them slip towards the relegation zone.

The Portuguese manager had enjoyed successful spells with Chelsea in the mid-2000s, winning the Premier League in consecutive seasons in 2004 and 2005. He has also won domestic titles with Porto, Inter Milan and Real Madrid.

Mourinho becomes the third manager appointed by Manchester United in the post-Ferguson era.

Reports indicate he met United officials at a London hotel this afternoon, where he signed his contract.

The club are still yet to make an announcement on the appointment.

Richard Newman of Sky Sports News said: “Having left Chelsea after a second spell before Christmas, taking charge of Man Utd has been rumoured for months.

“Things have moved quickly since Louis Van Gaal was sacked on Monday.

“Paul Scholes is sold on Mourinho and he wants to see entertaining football at Man Utd again.

BREAKING: Jose Mourinho is appointed as the new Manchester United manager #SSNHQ https://t.co/V1BdzRmgvB

— Sky Sports News HQ (@SkySportsNewsHQ) May 26, 2016

“There is no doubt he is box office, he will try to make Manchester United title challengers once again and with rival Pep Guardiola taking over at Manchester City, the derby will be fascinating viewing.”