Tottenham Hotspur are in advanced negotiations with José Mourinho over succeeding Mauricio Pochettino as the club’s manager – with conclusion of the deal imminent.
Pochettino parted ways with Spurs on Tuesday following months of speculation, with the club citing a poor run of results as a key factor behind their decision. Spurs have acted fast in replacing him, and are now likely to confirm the appointment of the former Manchester United boss on Wednesday morning.
Talks are at an advanced stage, according to various sources, and 90min has been able to verify as such.
The Portuguese manager has been without a club ever since he left United last December, and he was replaced by Ole Gunnar Solskjaer. Interestingly enough, Tottenham – with the strong possibility Mourinho will be at the helm – visit Old Trafford in the Premier League on December 4.
Pochettino took charge of 293 games with Tottenham, helping them to reach last season’s Champions League final. However, their season so far has been underwhelming – sitting just six points above the relegation zone and 11 points off the pace in the hunt for Champions League qualification.
Upon the announcement of Pochettino’s departure, Tottenham chairman Levy said: “We were extremely reluctant to make this change and it is not a decision the Board has taken lightly, nor in haste.
“Regrettably domestic results at the end of last season and beginning of this season have been extremely disappointing.
“It falls to the Board to make the difficult decisions – this one made more so given the many memorable moments we have had with Mauricio and his coaching staff – but we do so in the club’s best interests.
“Mauricio and his coaching staff will always be part of our history. I have the utmost admiration for the manner in which he dealt with the difficult times away from a home ground whilst we built the new stadium and for the warmth and positivity he brought to us.
“I should like to thank him and his coaching staff for all they have contributed. They will always be welcome here.
“We have a talented squad. We need to re-energise and look to deliver a positive season for our supporters.”