Jorge Mendes, the agent of José Mourinho, has branded a report claiming the Portuguese wrote to Manchester United regarding his credentials to be the next manager as “ridiculous and absurd”.

According to a report in the Independent on Sunday, Mourinho was said to have sent United a six-page letter in which he outlined why he would be a suitable fit for the position currently occupied by Louis van Gaal.

On the website of Gestifute, Mendes’s company, a statement read: “With regard to news published today in the British press about José Mourinho, Jorge Mendes explained the following: ‘It does not occur to anyone that a coach like José Mourinho can write letters to clubs offering their services. It is absolutely ridiculous and totally absurd.’”

Van Gaal is again under pressure after Saturday’s listless 1-0 defeat at home to Southampton, which came due to a late Charlie Austin goal. It was United’s first defeat since Boxing Day when the 2-0 reverse at Stoke City left Van Gaal’s job in the balance.

Since then United’s results have improved, the side going five matches unbeaten until Saturday. But the form has remained unconvincing and Van Gaal is facing renewed scrutiny.

Mourinho is keen to manage United and given the serial success he has enjoyed in his career appears an ideal candidate to replace Van Gaal should Ed Woodward, the executive chairman, decide to sack the Dutchman.