Van Gaal’s United appointment now looks a certainty

Manchester United are "90%" certain of appointing Louis van Gaal as manager by the end of the season, sources have told the Irish Examiner.

Negotiations have advanced significantly over the past few days, and Old Trafford chief executive Ed Woodward is determined to push the deal through.

It is anticipated that former Ajax star Patrick Kluivert will be assistant to the 62-year-old, with Danny Blind now likelier to remain working with Van Gaal’s replacement Guus Hiddink at the Dutch national team.