Manchester United have revealed that discussions regarding Sir Alex Ferguson’s eventual successor have taken place.

Fergie, who will be 71 later this year, has guided the club to 12 Premier League title since taking over the managers’ post but the United hierarchy know that time is no longer on his side.

Vice-Chairman Ed Woodward confirmed that plans are being made for life without the iconic Scotsman, but these details are top secret:

“We have a view as to what type of manager we want and how and when we’ll go about it.

“But it’s in the drawer and long may it stay in the drawer.

Sir Alex Ferguson has insisted that he will remain in charge of the club as long as his health will allow him too and claimed earlier this year that he could have another two or three seasons left.

However, with the years slowly ticking by plans have to be made for his eventual retirement.

Jose Mourinho and Pep Guardiola are just two names to have been mooted as possible candidates, although some believe that Everton boss David Moyes could be in line for the post.