Done Deal: Manchester United reached verbal agreement with Europe’s most dangerous attacker, player will join in January

The clock is ticking down towards Ruben Amorim’s first match in charge of Manchester United and the first clues of the early influence the new boss has had on the Red Devils’ squad.

Ipswich Town lie in wait for the 39-year-old coach, who has now taken his first training session and awaits the remainder of his international stars to return to Carrington. Amorim will have limited time to make his judgements before the journey to Portman Road on Sunday.

Talks has already moved towards the club’s transfer plans with Amorim at the helm, though it appears lavish spending will not continue. The new head coach will be tasked with getting the best out of his current group.

That has not stopped speculation of course. Mirror Football takes a look at some of the latest news surrounding United.

Gentleman’s agreement

Manchester United are said to have agreed a deal with Sporting CP to not allow Ruben Amorim to sign any of his former players when the January transfer window opens. The former Portugal midfielder has been getting to grips with his new squad and has already been linked to bringing the likes of Viktor Gyokeres to Old Trafford.

It appears such a move will not be imminently complete however, after all parties made a gentleman’s agreement. Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano believes that United could make some moves in the summer however.

“In the discussions between Sporting and Man United when they agreed on Amorim’s exit in November, there was also a gentleman’s agreement for United not to bring in any Sporting player in January,” said Romano.

“This is because Sporting hope to win the title this season and they don’t want to lose any other part of the squad in January, after having the big shock of Ruben Amorim leaving in the middle of the season. My expectation is for Manchester United to eventually look at Sporting players in the summer, if Amorim approves; not in January.”

Leroy Sane contract update

Bayern Munich winger Leroy Sane has poured cold water on claims he could make a return to the Premier League amid links to Manchester United and Arsenal. The Germany international is set to be out of contract in the summer but has revealed he is in talks to extend his stay.

“We are in talks,” he said. “I feel comfortable in Munich. I feel really comfortable. Talks are very good. My focus is currently only on Bayern.”

“I follow Premier League football but the attraction for me lies in the club where I can show my best performance, develop and win titles,” he added. “I have that at Bayern.”

Rúben Amorim’s debut as Manchester United manager against Ipswich Town promises to offer insight into his vision and approach for the team. With limited preparation time due to international commitments, Amorim’s immediate focus will be on maximizing the potential of his current squad rather than delving into significant transfer activity.

### Gentleman’s Agreement with Sporting CP
Reports confirm that Manchester United and Sporting CP have agreed not to pursue transfers of Sporting players during the January window. This agreement, which includes potential targets like Viktor Gyökeres, reflects Sporting’s determination to maintain their squad stability in pursuit of the Portuguese league title. Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano notes that United may revisit Sporting players in the summer, contingent on Amorim’s input.

### Leroy Sané’s Future
Linked to both Manchester United and Arsenal, Leroy Sané has downplayed speculation of a Premier League return. With his Bayern Munich contract nearing its end, the winger has indicated positive ongoing negotiations with the club, emphasizing his commitment to competing for titles and development in Munich. His remarks suggest that any potential move to Old Trafford is unlikely in the near term.

### Amorim’s Squad Priorities
While transfer rumors persist, Amorim’s immediate task will be to evaluate his players and integrate his tactical philosophy. With an eye on long-term development, lavish spending is not expected, placing emphasis on the coach’s ability to refine and improve the existing squad. Sunday’s match against Ipswich Town will provide the first glimpse of his influence on the Red Devils.