Man Utd make official move for Ruben Amorim! Sporting CP confirm Red Devils want to pay €10m release clause for in-demand manager to replace Erik ten Hag

Sporting CP have issued a statement confirming that United will pay the €10m release clause in Amorim's contract as they bid to appoint him as the replacement for the sacked Erik ten Hag. The Dutchman was relieved of his duties earlier this week and the club have moved quickly as they attempt to secure a successor.

Sporting's statement read: "Manchester United FC expressed an interest in hiring coach Rúben Amorim, with the Board of Directors of Sporting SAD referring to the terms and conditions set out in the employment contract in force between the Company and the coach, specifically the respective termination clause and the amount of Euro 10,000,000.00; 2. Manchester United FC expressed an interest in paying Sporting SAD the amount of the aforementioned clause."

United are hoping to finalise the appointment of Amorim ahead of Sunday's Premier League showdown with high-flying Chelsea at Old Trafford. Ruud van Nistelrooy will take interim charge of their Carabao Cup tie against Leicester on Wednesday.

Though he was tight-lipped when previously asked about the United job, Amorim is expected to provide a clearer update on his future after Sporting's League Cup quarter-final with Nacional on Tuesday night.