The Red Devils gaffer has long been linked with a summer swoop for Atletico Madrid star Antoine Griezmann.

But Spanish outlet Sport claimed on Monday that he has turned his attention to another top La Liga talent.

The newspaper suggested Mourinho is planning to meet Neymar's £173m release clause at the end of the season.

Jose Mourinho has been asked about Manchester United moving for Barcelona star Neymar

However, asked about a potential move for the 25-year-old, the Manchester United boss was utterly dismissive.

Mourinho told ESPN Brazil: "I always try to be objective and pragmatic with the clubs and ask the clubs for what can be given to me. Neymar is absurd.

"A club like Barcelona cannot and will not lose Neymar.

"Although [Lionel] Messi is still a young player with years to go, he is already 30, and Neymar will be the great player of Barcelona after Messi.

Brazil star Neymar has a massive £173m release clause in his current Barcelona contract
Manchester United have been heavily linked with Atletico Madrid star Antoine Griezmann too

"I think [trying to sign Neymar is like] going to try to break into a safe, impossible."

Sport added that Manchester United are willing to pay Neymar a mammoth £416,000-a-week to quit the Nou Camp.

But it seems the possibility of any deal being pursued is minimal if Mourinho's quotes mirror Ed Woodward's stance.