Preliminary talks have already been held at the highest levels within Old Trafford and the name of Mourinho has topped the agenda. United officials believe Sir Alex will retire at the end of next season, when he will be approaching his 69th birthday.
A United insider told us: "Mourinho is the name being mentioned most behind the scenes among the top brass. He has the kind of personality and successful record needed to take on the enormous task of succeeding Sir Alex. "He became very close to Fergie during his time at Chelsea and there is a mutual respect. The Glazers will rely heavily on Sir Alex in the naming of his replacement. "Fabio Capello would be another contender because Fergie rates him highly too but the Italian has already stated the England job will be his last in football."
There is support for Mourinho in the Old Trafford dressing room where the influential Rio Ferdinand has privately indicated the Inter Milan coach would be the only man to replace Fergie.
Mourinho, who dubbed himself ‘The Special One', won two league titles with Chelsea but left a year ago, joining Inter on a three-year deal in June. But he said this week: "I'm in love with the English league and I'll definitely return one day. That's what I want to do after Inter."
A highly-placed Chelsea source said: "Jose always made his love of United very clear, in fact he was obsessed with them and talked about being in charge of the biggest club in the world.
"He wanted to test himself in Italy when he left the Bridge, but it was obvious to most people he wanted to come back here with United to haunt us."