Jose Mourinho: No pre-contract with Manchester United

Former Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho says he has not signed a contract with a new club despite being linked with a number of jobs since being let go at Stamford Bridge.

The Portuguese tactician most recently declined an offer to manage the Syrian national team but has been closely linked as the replacement to Louis van Gaal at Manchester United. Mourinho took some time to dispel one particular rumour surrounding his potential move to Old Trafford, though:

"[Van Gaal] is my friend, I worked with him for a few years," Mourinho told Sky Sports. "I am always linked with jobs and in the summer I will have a job, but in this moment I can promise you I do not have a contract with any club.

"I am not in a position to turn [jobs] down, I am in a position to analyse. I am in a position to be open to any club or national team. I have to be honest, if possible I would prefer a club but I must analyse to see what is best for my career and to be back with everything I have."

Related: Mourinho can 'almost guarantee' he'll find a club this summer

While Mourinho says he'll be looking at opportunities at the club and international level, he says he does have a preferred destination.

"I would prefer [to be in England]," Mourinho said. "I love the country, I love the football here, my family is very stable and happy - if possible yes, it would be my first choice."