United believe they are appointing one of the most exciting and highly rated young coaches in European football who they feel has the style of play, personality, energy and winning mentality for the role as well, as a reputation for developing young players.
United insiders said Amorim was their first choice target to replace Ten Hag and that they did not hold conversations with any other managers.
Old Trafford sources believe Amorim has a “notably different profile from former head coaches” and will bring a new style and approach that taps in to what they say is a broader evolution of the club’s football structure.
United were aware of Amorim’s 30-day notice period before entering into discussions and say the compromise they have struck with Sporting means the coach will be available three weeks before he would otherwise have joined.
United respected it was a difficult situation for Sporting with important games ahead and recognised the Portuguese club’s desire to hold Amorim to the terms of his contract.
A United delegation led by chief executive Omar Berrada had travelled to Lisbon on Monday to speak to Sporting face to face and communicate their desire to appoint Amorim and explore an earlier release clause.
