As Ruben Amorim prepares to step into the role of Manchester United’s new head coach, speculation is already swirling around potential transfers from his current team, Sporting CP, to Old Trafford. Amorim, expected to follow Erik ten Hag and interim manager Ruud van Nistelrooy, will help lead United into a fresh phase under new INEOS ownership.
Recruitment strategy will be overseen by CEO Omar Berrada and sporting director Dan Ashworth, with Amorim contributing his expertise as head coach to identify and attract key players in a collaborative approach to rebuilding the squad.
While Amorim won’t have full control over transfers, his recommendations will be pivotal, and players familiar with his coaching style could become targets for United. According to Ashworth, managers often seek trusted players when building a team, which makes it likely that some Sporting stars could follow Amorim to Manchester. Here are five potential Sporting CP players who might fit into Amorim’s plans for United.
1. Goncalo Inacio (23, Centre-Back)
United’s defensive struggles over recent seasons have made strengthening the backline a priority. With uncertainty around Harry Maguire, Victor Lindelof, and Jonny Evans, bringing in a new center-back seems necessary. Inacio, a left-footed Portuguese international with 12 caps, is known for his composed defensive style and has attracted interest from both United and Liverpool. At 23, he would offer stability to United’s defense, though his €60 million release clause could pose a challenge.
2. Ousmane Diomande (20, Centre-Back)
Another promising defender from Sporting is Ousmane Diomande, a 20-year-old from Ivory Coast who partners with Inacio in Sporting’s backline. Diomande has gained attention across Europe for his solid defensive skills and potential. His combination with Inacio—Inacio being left-footed, and Diomande, right-footed—adds balance to their partnership. With interest from other major clubs like Arsenal and Chelsea, Diomande’s €80 million release clause could be a hurdle. However, his youth and versatility make him a desirable long-term investment for United.
3. Morten Hjulmand (25, Defensive Midfielder)
Manchester United’s midfield will likely undergo changes in the near future, especially as veteran players like Casemiro and Christian Eriksen reach the later stages of their careers. Danish international Morten Hjulmand, who recently joined Sporting from Lecce, has excelled in defensive midfield with his tactical awareness and tenacity. United has been tracking him for over a year, and his €80 million release clause highlights his value. Danish national coach Brian Riemer has even suggested that Hjulmand is destined for a top Premier League team, making him an appealing choice for Amorim’s midfield overhaul.
4. Geovany Quenda (17, Right-Winger)
With current United winger Antony struggling to find form, Amorim may look to strengthen the right wing. Sporting’s young talent Geovany Quenda, just 17 years old, has been making waves, and some in Portugal have even compared him to a young Cristiano Ronaldo.
Already a starter under Amorim’s guidance, Quenda has impressed with his skills and potential, though his €100 million release clause is considerable. United has reportedly shown interest, viewing him as a future asset who could bring depth and energy to the attack.
5. Viktor Gyokeres (26, Centre-Forward)
Swedish forward Viktor Gyokeres joined Sporting from Coventry City in 2023 and has already gained the attention of top English clubs, including Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Manchester City. Although United has not yet shown specific interest, Gyokeres’ strong rapport with Amorim could make him a target following Amorim’s move to Manchester.
His agent has hinted that Gyokeres might consider a transfer if Amorim leaves Sporting. While his release clause is set at €100 million, Sporting would reportedly entertain offers in the €60-70 million range next summer.
In summary, Ruben Amorim’s move to Manchester United may not only bring a new tactical approach but could also open the door for fresh talent from Sporting CP.
Integrating young players like Diomande and Quenda, along with seasoned individuals such as Hjulmand, Inacio, and Gyokeres, Amorim could bring in a mix of experience and potential to reinforce United’s foundation. This influx of talent would be central to United’s aim for long-term success in this new era.
