Man United 'take major steps' to appoint Ruben Amorim as Erik ten Hag replacement

The Red Devils are searching for a new permanent manager after taking the decision to part ways with Ten Hag on Monday.

After overseeing a 2-1 defeat to West Ham United on Sunday, Ten Hag has left Man United in 14th place in the Premier League table with just 11 points from nine top-flight matches.

Ruud van Nistelrooy has stepped up from his role as assistant manager to oversee first-team matters on a temporary basis.

Having placed Van Nistelrooy in interim charge, the Man United hierarchy are now searching for the ideal candidate to become the club's new permanent manager.

Man United identify Amorim as top contender

According to The Athletic, Man United are already working on a deal to appoint Amorim after identifying the Sporting boss as their number one target.

The report claims that the Premier League giants are willing to pay the €10m (£8.3m) release clause in Amorim's contract which is set to run until the summer of 2026.

Furthermore, the two clubs are said to be in talks over a potential deal which could see Amorim become the first managerial appointment since INEOS acquired a minority stake in the club in February.

Amorim is believed to be open to taking the Man United job despite his refusal to talk about the rumours when he spoke to the media earlier on Monday.

The Sporting boss told reporters: "I was expecting that question and obviously I'm not going to talk about the future, because otherwise I'll always have to comment, so it's not worth it, I won't comment. I'm very proud to be the coach of Sporting, that's all."

Why do Man United want to appoint Amorim?

Amorim has developed a reputation as one of Europe's top young managers after enjoying significant success during his time with Sporting.

The 39-year-old has won two Primeira Liga titles, two Taca da Liga trophies and a Portuguese Super Cup since taking over the reins at the Estadio Jose Alvalade in March 2020.

Amorim has also overseen a successful start to the 2024-25 season, with his team yet to lose in regulation time this season.

Sporting are sitting at the top of the Primeira Liga table with a 100% record, while they have taken seven points from their first three Champions League matches.

Amorim's success in Portugal has seen him previously linked with Liverpool and West Ham, but it seems that Man United could be his next destination if all the interested parties are able to strike a deal.