The Sunday Mirror says both Milan clubs have made official approaches and are prepared to pay the former Chelsea boss £10million a year to take charge next summer.

Mourinho's closest friends believe he favours a move to AC Milan, the reigning European Cup holders. But after claiming for a fortnight that he wanted the England job only to withdraw last weekend, the Portuguese coach has sparked an avalanche of interest.

But by noon last Monday three other European clubs had joined the race for Mourinho's signature - Juventus, Real Madrid and Barcelona.

By taking any job before next summer - not just in England - Mourinho (above) will forfeit 40 per cent of his £20m Chelsea settlement, and that is why he's prepared to test the market and enjoy being the most coveted coach in Europe.

Jorge Mendes, Mourinho's agent, does not expect the interest to be solely continental.

He has told friends a top English club has asked to be kept informed about his client's future plans.