“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 named Manchester United’s new manager, it was expected that players from his former club, Sporting CP, would quickly be linked with a move to Old Trafford — and that’s exactly what’s happened. Names like Viktor Gyokeres, Ousmane Diomande, Goncalo Inacio, and Morten Hjulmand have all been connected to United since Amorim’s appointment.

Though Amorim stated before officially taking over that he wouldn’t even joke about signing players from Sporting, the temptation is understandable. Now, one player has reportedly expressed a clear desire to reunite with the Portuguese coach, despite interest from other clubs. Meanwhile, Manchester United are also considering a backup plan if that move doesn’t go through.

### Diomande Wants United Move

While centre-back isn’t seen as a pressing need this transfer window — especially given the club’s financial constraints — Manchester United remain alert to top-tier talent that becomes available. And if a player is highly rated, pursued by a rival Premier League club, and eager to play under Amorim again, it could prompt United to take action.

According to Portuguese outlet *Correio da Manhã*, Crystal Palace are actively working on a deal to sign Ousmane Diomande. However, the Sporting defender reportedly prefers a move to United, primarily to reunite with his former coach.

Though Diomande’s contract contains an €80 million release clause, Sporting are thought to be open to negotiations around €50 million — a fee that could bring United into the frame later this summer. If United signal firm interest, Diomande might delay any move in hopes of rejoining Amorim.

### Goncalo Inacio as United’s Plan B

Should a deal for Diomande fall through, United are said to be lining up Goncalo Inacio as an alternative. Inacio, also a standout under Amorim, plays as a left-footed centre-back — a profile United currently lack outside of Ayden Heaven, Luke Shaw, and the injury-prone Lisandro Martinez.

Inacio’s release clause is set at €60 million, though reports indicate that Sporting might accept a slightly lower offer. Overall, his signing could prove more economical than Diomande’s.

Both players represent significant upgrades to United’s current defensive lineup. While negotiations for either are not yet at an advanced stage, the club remains open to strengthening their defence if the right opportunity arises — particularly if it involves talent that has already thrived under Amorim’s system.