Man Utd add manager Liverpool 'agreed deal for' to shortlist with Erik ten Hag at risk

Manchester United have added Sporting manager Ruben Amorim to their shortlist of Erik ten Hag replacement candidates, according to reports. Ten Hag’s job appears safe for now ahead of next Saturday’s clash with Brentford, but the Dutchman remains under serious pressure.

United are thought to have decided to offer Ten Hag more time to reverse his side’s fortunes on the pitch during Tuesday’s executive summit in London.

A lack of convincing successors contributed to the verdict in the six-hour meeting at INEOS’ headquarters in Knightsbridge, similar to in the summer.

Just a few months ago, United interviewed various coaches before deciding to stick with Ten Hag after he lifted the FA Cup, his second major trophy in as many years.

Thomas Tuchel, Thomas Frank, Roberto De Zerbi, Mauricio Pochettino and Marco Silva were among those who held talks with club bosses.

But a new name has since entered the frame in Amorim, who has been growing his reputation in Portugal, just as Ten Hag did in the Netherlands with Ajax.

According to GiveMeSport, United have added Amorim to the list of coaches they are monitoring while Ten Hag’s future remains uncertain.

The 39-year-old has made a name for himself in Portugal, winning two league titles and two Taca da Ligas since taking charge in 2020.

Sporting are leading the way in the Liga Portugal this season, too, after winning all eight of their opening matches.

They have also made an unbeaten start to their Champions League campaign, picking up four points from their opening two outings.

Amorim was strongly considered by Liverpool as Jurgen Klopp’s successor, and an £8.5million compensation package was reportedly agreed with Sporting to bring him to Anfield.

However, president Frederico Varandas is said to have moved the goalposts at the last minute, demanding twice as much. That prompted the Reds to walk away.

Amorim later flew to London to hold talks with West Ham United but ultimately opted to remain at Sporting, apologising to supporters for exploring alternative opportunities.

It’s clear he’s interested in a Premier League move, though, and one of the world’s biggest vacancies could soon open up if United’s performances don’t improve.

One player who would approve of Amorim’s arrival is Red Devils captain Bruno Fernandes after he recently hailed his success in Portugal.

“Since Amorim took over at Sporting, they have become one of the teams playing the best football, Fernandes explained on international duty.

“Whether he can replicate that in England, Spain, or anywhere else remains to be seen, but I am confident that his qualities are evident to everyone.”