Ruben Amorim kept his previous promise of not poaching stars from Sporting to strengthen Manchester United in the January transfer window despite his undeniable interest. However, the Red Devils boss is reportedly laying plans for a summer siege to capture some of his old stars.
Having accomplished an impressive tenure in Lisbon capped with multiple titles under his belt, Amorim’s departure to Old Trafford in November sent immediate shockwaves, sparking rumours about him snatching his go-to players from Sporting.
United are believed to have dispatched scouts to monitor Sporting sensation Geovany Quenda, hinting at a swoop come the summer season.
Portuguese outlet Record reported that United representatives were in attendance during Sporting’s tie against Porto on Friday.
The Athletic had previously claimed that the M16 giants were exploring a summer deal worth around £33m for Quenda, yet official confirmation remains elusive.
Before bidding adieu to Sporting, Amorim asserted his commitment to refrain from stripping the club of its gems straightaway – a word he honoured.
“In January, I’m not going to get anyone from Sporting,” the 40-year-old proclaimed ahead of his switch to England.
“That’s what I said. In the summer I don’t know what I’m going to do. The main point is to hold on until the summer.
“The second point, you can see that Sporting players are great players. Let’s see what will happen.”
Quenda, whom Amorim has his sights set on, transitioned to Sporting in 2019 after fine-tuning his football apprenticeship in Benfica’s youth framework.
The teenage sensation made history as Sporting Reserves’ youngest debutant, aged 16, and Amorim lavished praise on a young talent back in July.
He told Sporting TV: “He’s very talented, very mature and understands the game like an adult. He obviously has a lot to improve on, but I think he had an excellent game, and we have a player there.”
Meanwhile, United’s radar is firmly fixed on Viktor Gyokeres, a goal machine who has taken Europe by storm in recent years.
Signed by Amorim after a stellar season with Coventry City in the Championship, where he netted an incredible 43 goals, Gyokeres has maintained his scoring spree, attracting attention from elite clubs across the continent.
His bond with Amorim might just tip the scales in favour of the Red Devils, who are desperate for a prolific striker.
Sporting are rumoured to be holding out for a hefty £60m for their prized asset this summer.
This article was first published on Mirror Sport
Content Source: www.express.co.uk