Manchester United have approached Portuguese top flight side Sporting in an effort to sign head coach Ruben Amorim, Sky Sports News understands.
Talks between the two sides are thought to be ongoing after the Manchester club sacked manager Erik ten Hag earlier today.
Amorim, 39, is one of the most sought-after young coaches in Europe and had reportedly been in the running to replace Jurgen Klopp at Liverpool over the summer.
Analysis: It’s not just who replaces Ten Hag, but how much time they get
United would need to pay a release clause for the Portuguese coach, but are willing to do so, according to Sky Sports News.
Amorim led Sporting to their first league title in 19 years in 2021, and won his second with the club last season.
So far this season his side is unbeaten and tops Liga Portugal with nine wins from a possible nine.
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‘We need to move on without Erik ten Hag’
United appear to be moving quickly to try and appoint a successor to Ten Hag as the club languishes in 14th after a poor start to the season.
Former Red Devils striker turned assistant coach Ruud van Nistelrooy has replaced Ten Hag on an interim basis.
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A statement from the club said: “We are grateful to Erik for everything he has done during his time with us and wish him well for the future.”
Ten Hag was informed of the club’s decision on Monday morning after his team slumped to a disappointing 2-1 loss away to West Ham over the weekend.
The 54-year-old had spent two and a half years in the job.