Manchester United legend in talks over surprise return to English football

Former Manchester United forward Ruud van Nistelrooy is reportedly not close to becoming Burnley's new boss despite reports.

Reports in the Netherlands claimed that the Dutchman was close to agreeing a 'multi-year deal' with the Clarets following Vincent Kompany's departure to Bayern Munich. However, Burnley Express state that he is part of a wide conversation and no deal is close yet.

It is claimed that Burnley are keen to appoint a big name and the Dutchman is thought to fit that criteria. Van Nistelrooy emerged as the bookies favourite for the past week ahead of the likes of West Bromwich Albion's Carlos Corberan, Frank Lampard and Scott Parker.

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Meanwhile, the BBC claim that Lampard and Parker have been in talks with the Clarets over the vacant role.

The former United striker has been out of a job since resigning as manager of PSV Eindhoven in May of last year. The lack of support was said to be behind his decision.

He spent 14 months at the Eredivisie outfit and enjoyed a 65 per cent win rate, winning the Dutch Cup. He previously coached the youth ranks at the club and worked his way up to securing the first-team job.

The 47-year-old spent five years at Old Trafford between 2001 and 2006, scoring 150 goals and registering 30 assists. After leaving the Red Devils, Van Nistelrooy signed for Real Madrid where he spent four seasons.