Man U sees Barcelona boss Guardiola as Fergie's successor

London, Jan. 17 (ANI): Manchester United is seeing Barcelona boss Pep Guardiola as Sir Alex Ferguson's successor within next two years.

Guardiola has a contract at the Nou Camp until June and United have asked his agent about bringing him to Old Trafford in a coaching role next season, with a view to succeeding Fergie 12 months after that.

"A club has contacted me but there have been no discussions over money or the sporting project. Anything like that is up to Pep," News of the World quoted Guardiola's agent Jose Maria Orobigt, as saying.

Guardiola, 38, has been reported as Fergie's preferred choice to take over at United when he finally retires within the next couple of years.

The former Barca and Spain midfielder has remained silent on his plans for next season even though the club have made it clear that they want him to stay.

Fergie had said that he does not expect to be managing by the time he reaches 70.

United have long held concerns over who should be their next manager and believe that Jose Mourinho's abrasive style and conservative football would not sit well with supporters. (ANI)