Manchester United have dismissed reports suggesting that Italy coach Marcello Lippi is being lined up to join the Old Trafford club after the World Cup final.

The Italian media had claimed that Lippi was on the Red Devils' wish-list and was being lined up as the long-term successor to Sir Alex Ferguson.

A source close to Lippi reportedly told The Sun: "He is not looking for a lucrative contract since he has achieved success at the highest level and working abroad is the only thing that interests him.

"He will not find it diminishing to work either alongside or under another manager."

However, a statement on United's official club website poured scorn on that suggestion, reading: "There is no truth in the story about Lippi coming to Old Trafford.

"We are happy with our coaching set-up."