In a stunning development that could reshape the Premier League landscape, Sporting CP's highly-rated manager Ruben Amorim has reportedly agreed in principle to take the helm at Manchester United.
The Mirror can exclusively reveal that the 39-year-old Portuguese tactician, who has been the subject of intense admiration from the Old Trafford hierarchy, has given the green light to a deal that would see him replace the under-pressure Erik ten Hag.
Amorim, who led Sporting to their first league title in 19 years in 2021 and is on the cusp of another triumph this season, is understood to have been identified as the number one candidate to lead the Red Devils into a new era.
The End of the Ten Hag Era
Current boss Erik ten Hag finds himself on increasingly thin ice following a disappointing second season at the club. Despite winning the Carabao Cup and securing a top-four finish in his debut campaign, a string of inconsistent performances and a failure to mount a serious title challenge has left his future in serious doubt.
The new minority ownership of INEOS and Sir Jim Ratcliffe is keen to stamp its authority on the football side of the operation, and a change in the dugout is viewed as a crucial first step.
Why Amorim is in High Demand
The former Benfica player has become one of the most sought-after coaches in European football, renowned for his attractive, attacking brand of football and his ability to develop young talent.
His success in breaking the dominance of Porto and Benfica in Portugal has not gone unnoticed, with his name also frequently linked with the soon-to-be-vacant Liverpool job.
"He plays the kind of football that United fans crave," a source close to the negotiations told The Mirror. "It's proactive, not reactive. He is seen as the perfect man to build a lasting project."
While the final details are still being ironed out, an official announcement is expected once the Portuguese season concludes and compensation between the two clubs is agreed upon. This potential appointment signals a bold new direction for Manchester United.
