After Erik ten Hag’s recent dismissal, Manchester United has appointed Ruud van Nistelrooy as interim manager, but the club’s search for a permanent replacement is already in full swing, with a clear front-runner emerging.

2024-25, English Premier League: Standings

Reports from The Athletic suggest that United’s top choice is Sporting Lisbon’s Rúben Amorim, the highly regarded Portuguese coach who has led Sporting to two league titles and two domestic cups over four impressive seasons. However, securing Amorim will come at a price; his contract includes a €10 million release clause, which United is reportedly prepared to meet. Negotiations between the clubs are in progress, and Amorim, 39, is said to be keen on the opportunity to make the move.

Amorim would inherit a complex situation at Old Trafford. United currently sit a disappointing 14th in the Premier League, and the board’s expectations for the new manager are clear: steer the club back into European contention.