Ruben Amorim ‘eyes reunion with FOUR Sporting CP stars’ at Man Utd despite heavy Arsenal defeat

Ruben Amorim could reportedly reunite with four of his former Sporting players at Manchester United.

The 39-year-old oversaw his first match as United’s head coach last Sunday, a 1-1 draw against Ipswich at Portman Road. Despite utilizing his favored 3-4-3 formation, the team appeared unfamiliar with his tactical approach, highlighting the need for further adaptation. In his first interview at Old Trafford, Amorim acknowledged that implementing his style would require “time.”

Following the match, he reiterated this sentiment, stating the team would need to “suffer” to improve. “They need time to achieve fluidity,” Amorim said. “I know it’s frustrating for the fans, but we’re changing a lot amidst a busy schedule. We’re going to suffer for a while. This will take time.”

However, the January transfer window could provide relief. According to the Daily Mail, United scouts were present at Sporting’s 5-1 defeat to Arsenal on Tuesday, with several Premier League clubs, including Manchester City, also observing the game. Reports suggest United have prioritized signing Sporting striker Viktor Gyökeres, who has scored an impressive 67 goals in 69 appearances since joining from Coventry City in 2023. This season alone, he has netted 24 goals in 20 matches.

Although Amorim has vowed not to raid his former club in January, this could change depending on United’s form. PSG left-back Nuno Mendes, who played under Amorim at Sporting from 2020 to 2022, is reportedly a potential target. Additionally, 17-year-old Geovany Quenda and 26-year-old Pedro Gonçalves have been linked with moves to Old Trafford.

Portuguese outlet A Bola claims Sporting are open to negotiations, with United prepared to offer around £50 million for Quenda, who is under contract until 2027. Gonçalves, a versatile attacker valued at approximately €32 million (£26.7 million) by Transfermarkt, played on the left of a front three under Amorim – a role Alejandro Garnacho filled during the Ipswich match. Gonçalves is also contracted to Sporting un

til 2027.