Manchester United have played down talk that the club are lining up Zinedine Zidane to replace Jose Mourinho.

Mourinho, who is favourite to be first Premier League manager to leave, is coming under increasing scrutiny after United suffered a shock defeat to Brighton in only their second game of the season.

United’s less than impressive start to the season which included a poor pre-season, coupled with a poor transfer window – which only saw Brazilian midfielder Fred, Portuguese defender Diego Dalot and back-up keeper Lee Grant – and fans are far from happy.

Talk has now emerged about possible replacements, and Zidane’s name has been strongly linked, but sources close to the club have played it down.

One United source told the BBC: “Why would we discuss Zidane when there is no job?”

Zidane is now firm favourite to be the man to replace Mourinho at United, if and when he departs Old Trafford.

PaddyPower make the former Real Madrid boss just 2/1 to take charge at United, ahead of Spurs boss Mauricio Pochettino.

“It looks like a case of Jose no Mour, as his infamous third season syndrome kicks in. He really wants to get that looked at,” said spokesman Paddy Power.

“Zidane is out of work. Wants the job. Won three Champions Leagues in a row. Is the ultimate Galactico. Woodward won’t be able to resist.”