4 Sporting CP Stars Ruben Amorim Could Bring to Manchester United

Amorim’s Potential Shopping List at Old Trafford

Manchester United’s summer rebuild could take inspiration from Sporting CP, with Ruben Amorim eyeing familiar faces to strengthen the squad. The Portuguese coach, heavily linked with a move to Old Trafford, might look to recruit players he previously developed in Lisbon.

Unlike Erik ten Hag’s mixed success in signing former Ajax players, Amorim could find greater value in targeting key figures from his previous club. Here are four Sporting CP stars who could thrive under his guidance at Manchester United.

1. Gonçalo Inácio – The Defensive Anchor United Needs

Manchester United’s defensive struggles have been a recurring issue, with injuries and inconsistent performances plaguing their backline. Amorim’s 3-4-2-1 formation demands a composed, ball-playing centre-back, and Gonçalo Inácio fits the profile perfectly.

• Key Stats: Over 200 appearances for Sporting CP, averaging a goal every 10 games—a rare feat for a defender.

• Why He’s a Good Fit: His ability to play in a back three or as a left-sided centre-back makes him an ideal option for Amorim’s tactical setup.

• Transfer Value: Estimated at €45m (£37.6m), a reasonable price for a 23-year-old already attracting interest from Real Madrid and Liverpool.

United need a reliable defender who can progress the ball and contribute offensively—Inácio could be the solution.

2. Morten Hjulmand – The Midfield General

United’s midfield has lacked balance, with Casemiro struggling for form and Sofyan Amrabat failing to impress. Enter Morten Hjulmand, a dynamic box-to-box midfielder who shined under Amorim.

• Big-Match Mentality: Announced himself with a stunning goal against England at Euro 2024.

• Versatility: Thrives in a two-man midfield, offering tactical intelligence, mobility, and defensive resilience.

• European Pedigree: Ranks in the top 23% of Champions League midfielders for take-ons and fouls drawn—demonstrating his ability to control tempo.

With 49 appearances last season, he was instrumental in Sporting’s title-winning campaign. Could he be the midfield engine United desperately need?

3. Trincão – The Rejuvenated Winger

Manchester United could face a major attacking overhaul, with Jadon Sancho, Antony, and Marcus Rashford’s futures uncertain. Trincão, once seen as a Barcelona flop, has rebuilt his career under Amorim and could be an ideal addition.

• Revival at Sporting: Consistently hits double figures for goals and assists each season.

• Premier League Experience: Had a brief spell at Wolves, meaning he wouldn’t require major adaptation time.

• Competition for His Signature: Arsenal, Manchester City, and Newcastle are reportedly interested.

Given United’s attacking struggles, Trincão’s work ethic and technical ability could provide much-needed creativity on the wings.

4. Viktor Gyökeres – The Goal Machine

United’s No.9 dilemma continues, with Rasmus Højlund showing promise but lacking consistency, and Joshua Zirkzee failing to impress. If Amorim wants a proven goal scorer, he need look no further than Viktor Gyökeres.

• Unstoppable Form: Scored 43 goals in 50 games in his debut season at Sporting, already surpassing the 40-goal mark this year.

• Physical Presence: Strong, fast, and clinical—ideal for Premier League football.

• Premier League Connection: Previously played for Brighton & Coventry, giving him experience in English football.

With United desperate for a consistent goal threat, Gyökeres could be the transformative signing their attack needs.

Would Sporting CP’s Stars Fix United’s Problems?

With Sporting CP excelling under Amorim, it’s no surprise that several of their key players are being linked with Manchester United. Whether the Red Devils will move for any of these stars remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: Amorim knows how to get the best out of them.

Which of these four players would you like to see at Old Trafford?