I don’t know what to do with him. He has insisted that he’ll rather reunite with Amorim than to move to another club or remain in Sporting” – This is according to Sporting manager Rui Borges as Sporting standout would rather reunite with Ruben Amorim despite transfer interest

As soon as Ruben Amorim was announced as Manchester United’s new head coach, it was anticipated that individuals from his previous team, Sporting CP, would soon be associated with potential transfers to Old Trafford — and that prediction has come true. Players such as Viktor Gyokeres, Ousmane Diomande, Goncalo Inacio, and Morten Hjulmand have each been linked with United following Amorim’s hiring.

Even though Amorim mentioned prior to officially assuming the role that he wouldn’t even “joke about signing players from Sporting,” the appeal is easy to grasp. At present, one footballer has apparently made it clear he wishes to reunite with the Portuguese manager, despite interest from elsewhere. At the same time, Manchester United are said to be weighing an alternative option in case that deal doesn’t happen.

### Diomande Wants United Move

Although bringing in a centre-back isn’t viewed as an urgent priority this transfer window — particularly considering the club’s financial limitations — Manchester United are still watching for elite talent that may become accessible. And if someone is highly valued, targeted by a competing Premier League side, and wants to work with Amorim again, it might push United to make a move.

As per Portuguese source *Correio da Manhã*, Crystal Palace are currently pushing for an agreement to acquire Ousmane Diomande. Nevertheless, the Sporting centre-back is believed to favour a switch to United, mainly to link up once more with his previous boss.

Even though Diomande’s current deal includes an €80 million buyout clause, Sporting are reportedly willing to negotiate for around €50 million — a figure that could allow United to enter the conversation later in the window. If United express concrete interest, Diomande could delay any transfer in hopes of a reunion with Amorim.

### Goncalo Inacio as United’s Plan B

If Diomande’s transfer doesn’t materialise, United are reportedly preparing to target Goncalo Inacio instead. Inacio, who also shone under Amorim’s guidance, is a left-sided centre-back — a role United currently have few options for beyond Ayden Heaven, Luke Shaw, and the frequently injured Lisandro Martinez.

Inacio’s buyout clause stands at €60 million, but speculation suggests Sporting may consider slightly less. On the whole, his acquisition might turn out to be more budget-friendly compared to Diomande.

Both defenders would mark substantial improvements over United’s existing defensive options. While talks for either player have not yet reached an advanced level, the club remains open to bolstering the backline if the chance presents itself — especially if the player has already excelled in Amorim’s tactical framework.