The moment Ruben Amorim took over at Manchester United, it was inevitable that links to players from his former club Sporting would follow.
It hasn’t taken long for that to prove true, with names like Viktor Gyokeres, Ousmane Diomande, Goncalo Inacio and Morten Hjulmand all cropping up in connection to a move.
Before arriving at Old Trafford, Amorim joked that he wouldn’t be taking players with him, but it’s easy to see why the club would be interested in talent he helped develop.
One of those players has now made it clear he would like to work under Amorim again, even as United keep their options open in case a deal doesn’t happen.
Ousmane Diomande prefers Manchester United
Centre-back isn’t at the top of the club’s list of needs this summer, especially given their tight finances.
But when a top young talent shows interest and other Premier League clubs are involved, United might have to act, particularly if the player wants to work with Amorim again, as some reports suggest.
Crystal Palace have started talks to sign Diomande, but the Ivorian defender would prefer to join Manchester United, according to Portuguese outlet Correio da Manhã.
His €80m release clause remains a problem for the Red Devils. However, recent reports suggest that the Lions could accept an offer closer to €50m.
If United signal their intent, Diomande may be willing to wait for the move he prefers rather than jumping at the first offer.
But as the report notes, United do have another option lined up in case this one falls through.
Manchester United view Goncalo Inacio as a backup option
If a deal for Diomande doesn’t happen, United are expected to turn their attention to his defensive partner, Goncalo Inacio.
Inacio, a left-footer, also thrived under Amorim and has a €60m release clause that the club believes they wouldn’t need to meet in full.
A deal for Inacio could end up being more affordable overall, and his skill set would address another issue in United’s back line: a lack of quality left-footed centre-backs beyond Ayden Heaven and the injury-prone pair of Luke Shaw and Lisandro Martinez.
Even though talks for both players are still in the early stages, there’s no doubt United are open to the right opportunity. Either Diomande or Inacio would represent a significant upgrade over their current defensive options.
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