Manchester United step up Guardiola chase

Manchester United have “significantly upgraded what had previously only been back-channel contact with Bayern Munich manager Pep Guardiola.”

According to ESPN, Old Trafford officials are eager to bring in the former Barcelona manager to replace Louis van Gaal. It is understood that there is little chance of the Dutchman being sacked before the end of the season. But his future beyond next summer is in doubt.

United officials have stepped up contact with Guardiola, in order to beat their rivals Manchester City to his signature.

Guardiola is yet to sign a new deal with Bayern Munich and the Bundesliga club are afraid he has made up his mind to leave, when his current deal expires in June 2016.