United silent on Van Gaal reports

Manchester United have said they have “nothing to report” following suggestions that Louis van Gaal has agreed a deal to succeed David Moyes.

Dutch newspaper De Telegraaf claimed on Saturday that the experienced Van Gaal has come to an agreement with United, who are searching for a new manager after sacking Moyes on Tuesday.

Ryan Giggs was appointed as interim manager of United ahead of this weekend’s game with Norwich City, but Van Gaal is the strong favourite to take over on a permanent basis, having already revealed he will stand down as coach of the Netherlands after the 2014 FIFA World Cup.

Responding to speculation linking Van Gaal with the Old Trafford hotseat, a United spokesman said: “There is nothing to report.

“We have not signed a new manager. When we have something to report, we will announce it.”

A UEFA Champions League winner with Ajax in 1995, Van Gaal has won domestic titles in the Netherlands, Germany and Spain.

The 62-year-old has previously expressed a desire to work in the Premier League and would bring a wealth of experience at the highest level.

United legend Giggs will be hoping the search for a new boss does not overshadow matters on the pitch as he prepares to take charge of his first game on Saturday.

Giggs, who has enjoyed an illustrious and lengthy playing career at Old Trafford, said on Friday that being handed control of first-team affairs was “probably the proudest moment of my career”.