Arsenal and Manchester City target eyeing Manchester United move because of Ruben Amorim - Reports
Sporting CP’s breakout star, Ousmane Diomande, is reportedly edging closer to a move to Manchester United following discussions with new head coach Ruben Amorim. The Ivorian centre-back, who has rapidly established himself as one of Europe’s most exciting defensive prospects, is keen on reuniting with the coach who guided Sporting to the league title last season, as per Sky.
Diomande joined Sporting from Danish club Midtjylland in January 2023 and has enjoyed a meteoric rise in Portugal. He made 26 league appearances last season, anchoring Sporting’s back-line and solidifying his reputation as a top-tier talent.
Under Amorim’s tutelage, the towering 6'3 defender played an instrumental role in Sporting’s success and is seemingly ready to take the next step in his career.
According to Sky (via Metro), Amorim, who recently took the reins at Manchester United, has spoken personally with Diomande about the prospect of joining him at Old Trafford.
Arsenal and Manchester City are also reportedly interested in signing Diomande. However, the conversation with Amorim seems to have resonated with the young defender, who is believed to be leaning towards a move to the Premier League giants.
Manchester United expect fierce competition in the race for Diomande’s signature, with rivals Manchester City and Arsenal refusing to back down.
City have long been admirers of the Ivorian, with their interest dating back to his days at Midtjylland. Arsenal, too, are monitoring the situation closely. The Gunners, known for their focus on developing young talent, see Diomande as a potential long-term solution to bolster their defensive ranks.
Sporting are bracing for a potential bidding war, but they may have to temper their expectations. While Diomande’s release clause is set at a hefty €80 million (£66m), the Lisbon-based club acknowledges that offers closer to this figure may be unrealistic.
Manchester United hoping to climb the Premier League table under Ruben Amorim
Rúben Amorim's first training sessions as Manchester United's head coach have been characterized by an emphasis on intensity, organization, and implementing his tactical philosophy.
After taking over during the international break, Amorim initially worked with a limited group of players but made his vision clear from day one, focusing on establishing a dynamic and cohesive style of play. The sessions included tactical drills that aligned with his preferred 3-4-3 formation, emphasizing high pressing and positional awareness.
Amad Diallo has reportedly caught Amorim's eye, and the young Ivorian is expected to play a significant role moving forward. Marcus Rashford also praised the training on social media, describing it as a "top session."
Amorim and his new coaching team, most of whom joined from Sporting CP, have reportedly brought fresh energy to the Carrington training ground. They are aiming to revitalize the squad and instil a clear identity.
Following a series of lacklustre performances, the Red Devils decided to part ways with Erik ten Hag at the end of October. Former United striker Ruud van Nistelrooy took interim charge, leading them to three wins and a draw in four games, including a 3-0 win over Leicester City in their last Premier League game.
Despite their win, United are 13th in the league standings and will be hoping to turn things around on November 24, Sunday, when they take on Ipswich Town at Portman Road.