Last Updated: Sun, 06 Jul 2008 10:53
Carlos Queiroz is again being tipped to quit Manchester United for the Portugal job which could also affect Cristiano Ronaldo's future.
The Portuguese tactician is currently Sir Alex Ferguson's number two at Old Trafford but has been linked with the vacant post with his national team following Luiz Felipe Scolari's decision to quit after Euro 2008 to take over the Chelsea job.
The Sunday Times has now reported that Queiroz will sign a four-year deal to be the new Portugal coach in the near future and that will also hamper United's efforts to ensure Ronaldo will remain at Old Trafford as the club bid to ward off Real Madrid's advances.
Queiroz is like a father-figure to Ronaldo at United and was thought to be instrumental in persuading last season's 42-goal winger that he is better off snubbing Spain to stay in the Premier League.
Boss Sir Alex Ferguson recently said: "Carlos has the experience of being at Real Madrid. That is helping us now with all the nonsense we have to talk about. Carlos' experience means he can advise Cristiano quite well about that kind of club. That is a plus point for us."
It is also thought Queiroz's departure could have an adverse impact on United's fortunes as he has played a big part in getting the club back to winning ways in the past four years, culminating in last season's Champions League and Premier League titles.