Manchester United have been handed a significant boost in their pursuit of Sporting CP manager Rúben Amorim, as a source close to the matter has revealed that Manchester City will not be competing for the Portuguese coach.
According to ESPN, City have decided against making a move for Amorim, leaving United with a clear run as they engage in negotiations with Sporting CP. This development will undoubtedly come as music to the ears of the Red Devils, who have been heavily linked with the 38-year-old in recent weeks.
Amorim has been identified by United as one of the top targets to succeed Erik ten Hag, who is under immense pressure at Old Trafford. The Dutchman has struggled to replicate his Ajax success in Manchester, and the club's hierarchy has been sounding out potential replacements in case things do not improve.
With City out of the running, United will now face less competition in their pursuit of Amorim. However, the Red Devils still have to navigate the complexities of negotiating a deal with Sporting CP, who are unlikely to let their manager go without a fight.
The Portuguese club are said to be keen on holding onto Amorim, who has been instrumental in the team's success in recent years. Amorim has a contract with Sporting until 2026, and the Lisbon-based outfit will likely demand a hefty compensation package if they are to let him go.
Despite these potential stumbling blocks, United are confident that they can secure Amorim's services. The club's owners, the Glazers, are said to be willing to back the new manager with significant funds, and Amorim has reportedly been impressed by the Red Devils' ambitious project.
As the negotiations between United and Sporting CP continue, the Red Devils' fans will be keeping a close eye on developments. If Amorim does eventually join the club, it will be seen as a major coup for the Old Trafford outfit, who are desperate to close the gap on City and other top Premier League clubs.
One thing is for certain – United's pursuit of Amorim is a clear indication of the club's desire to return to the top of the English football pyramid. With City out of the running, the Red Devils will be hoping to capitalize on this opportunity and bring one of the most exciting young managers in the game to Old Trafford.