EXCLUSIVE NEWS: reported by Fabrizio Romano, EYES LIKE AN EAGLE, Manchester United incoming coach Ruben Amorim has told the club the 3 signings he need to kickstart his tenure as Manchester United coach. Man United-linked head coach Ruben’s Amorim has identified three players that he would like to sign as he’s about to succeed Erik ten hag at Old Trafford, according to a report. Ruben Amorim ‘identifies first three signings as Manchester United manager’.
With Ruben Amorim poised to step in as Manchester United’s new head coach, there’s already speculation around which players from his current club, Sporting CP, he could bring to Old Trafford. Amorim is expected to replace Erik ten Hag and interim manager Ruud van Nistelrooy as United restructures its approach under the ownership of INEOS. In this new setup, CEO Omar Berrada and sporting director Dan Ashworth are steering the club’s transfer decisions, with Amorim’s title as head coach reflecting his role in a more collaborative recruitment process.
Although Amorim won’t hold full authority over transfers, he will certainly have input on potential signings, which could include players from his current squad. Ashworth has acknowledged that it’s natural for coaches to want familiar talent, making it likely that United could target key Sporting players. Here are five Sporting CP talents who might make the switch to Manchester United under Amorim’s leadership:
1. Goncalo Inacio (23, Centre-Back)
Manchester United has had its fair share of defensive struggles in recent years, and while the backline has shown some improvement, defensive reinforcements are still needed. Uncertainty surrounds the futures of Harry Maguire, Victor Lindelof, and Jonny Evans, making a center-back addition likely next season. Inacio, a left-footed Portuguese international with 12 caps, has been on United’s and Liverpool’s scouting radar for a while. Known for his composure and defensive acumen, the 23-year-old could be a valuable asset. However, United would need to meet his €60 million release clause to bring him over.
2. Ousmane Diomande (20, Centre-Back)
Another promising option in Sporting’s defense is Ousmane Diomande, Inacio’s 20-year-old defensive partner. This Ivorian talent has been highly regarded in Europe for some time and is seen as one of the most promising young defenders in the market. Diomande is right-footed, making him complementary to Inacio’s left-footed style. With an €80 million release clause, he’s garnered interest from clubs like Arsenal and Chelsea. Diomande’s age, skill, and potential to grow within United’s defense make him an attractive prospect.
3. Morten Hjulmand (25, Defensive Midfielder)
Manchester United’s midfield could be undergoing a major shift next summer, as veterans like Casemiro and Christian Eriksen are expected to depart. Danish international Morten Hjulmand, a recent addition to Sporting from Lecce, has already impressed as a defensive midfielder. Known for his intelligence and tenacity on the field, Hjulmand has been linked to United for over a year. With a release clause of €80 million, he could be a valuable long-term asset for United’s midfield. His national team manager, Brian Riemer, has suggested it’s only a matter of time before he joins a top Premier League club.
4. Geovany Quenda (17, Right-Winger)
With Antony struggling to make an impact at United, a right-winger could be high on Amorim’s wishlist. Sporting’s teenage prodigy, Geovany Quenda, is one such talent who has recently attracted United’s interest. At just 17, he’s been a regular starter under Amorim and is sometimes referred to as Cristiano Ronaldo’s ‘little brother’ in the Portuguese media. Quenda’s skill and potential have led to comparisons with some of the sport’s elite young players, although his €100 million release clause could be a significant obstacle. Nonetheless, reports indicate that United’s management has already made inquiries about the young winger.
5. Viktor Gyokeres (26, Centre-Forward)
Finally, no list of potential Sporting signings would be complete without mentioning Viktor Gyokeres. The Swedish striker has been sensational since his move from Coventry City to Sporting in 2023, capturing the attention of major clubs like Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Manchester City. Though United hasn’t yet been prominently linked with Gyokeres, Amorim’s arrival could change that. The two share a strong professional relationship, and Gyokeres’ agent admitted that the forward would find it hard to stay at Sporting if Amorim left. Sporting has also reportedly agreed to allow Gyokeres to move for around €60-70 million next summer, despite his €100 million release clause.
In conclusion, Amorim’s arrival at Manchester United may not only bring a fresh tactical approach but could also introduce a wave of new talent from Sporting CP. With a mix of young stars like Diomande and Quenda, seasoned prospects like Hjulmand, and established talents such as Inacio and Gyokeres, Amorim has several Sporting players he could potentially bring to Old Trafford. These players could offer United a solid foundation as they look to rebuild and strengthen for a new era.
Ruben Amorim’s potential move to Manchester United indeed signals a fascinating transition. As he steps into a structured head coach role within the club’s evolving system, it’s likely he’ll draw on familiar talent from Sporting CP to implement his tactical vision. With INEOS’s backing, CEO Omar Berrada and sporting director Dan Ashworth aim to establish a collaborative recruitment strategy, aligning with Amorim’s style and preferences. This scenario presents an opportunity for United to integrate a blend of young promise and experience from Sporting.
1. **Goncalo Inacio (23, Centre-Back)** – Inacio is a versatile and composed center-back known for his excellent distribution and left-footed balance. United’s need for defensive reinforcements makes him a priority, especially with potential exits from their current backline. The €60 million release clause is steep but within reach, considering his consistency and international experience.
2. **Ousmane Diomande (20, Centre-Back)** – As a rising star, Diomande’s defensive partnership with Inacio has impressed across Europe. His €80 million clause might deter some, but his age and compatibility with United’s long-term vision make him a strategic acquisition. As a right-footed defender, he’d complement Inacio well, adding flexibility and future depth to United’s defense.
3. **Morten Hjulmand (25, Defensive Midfielder)** – With Casemiro and Eriksen’s roles uncertain, Hjulmand could become an anchor in United’s midfield. His intelligence, coupled with defensive grit, aligns well with Amorim’s tactical setups. Though his €80 million clause is significant, Hjulmand’s adaptability and leadership potential could make him a worthwhile investment as United revamps its midfield.
4. **Geovany Quenda (17, Right-Winger)** – Quenda’s explosive pace and technical flair have drawn high praise, often likened to a young Cristiano Ronaldo. United’s issues on the right-wing could be addressed with Quenda’s signing, providing both immediate impact and future promise. Despite the €100 million clause, the club could negotiate a feasible transfer, especially with Quenda’s eagerness to progress at an elite level.
5. **Viktor Gyokeres (26, Centre-Forward)** – Gyokeres’ scoring prowess and synergy with Amorim make him a logical target, particularly as United seeks a reliable goal threat. With a potential release for around €60-70 million, Gyokeres could bring the firepower United needs up front. His familiarity with Amorim’s style would accelerate his adaptation, making him an attractive option if United seeks to bolster its attack.
This approach, focusing on Sporting CP’s talents, could provide United with a coherent blend of skill and youth, giving Amorim the flexibility to implement his strategy with players who understand his methods. Such acquisitions could mark the beginning of a resilient and adaptable Manchester United squad in this new era.