United to Benefit from Amorim's Imminent AC Milan Appointment
Manchester United are poised to save up to £10 million in compensation following Ruben Amorim's decision to take the AC Milan job, according to Tuesday's newspapers. The Daily Mail reports that the Portuguese coach's impending move to the Serie A giants will spare United from having to trigger his release clause, which had been a major stumbling block in their previous interest.
The 41-year-old Amorim, who guided Sporting CP to two league titles, was heavily linked with the Red Devils earlier this year as a potential replacement for under-pressure boss Erik ten Hag. However, the financial package required to prize him from Lisbon—including a hefty release clause—deterred United from making a formal approach. Now, with Milan set to officially announce Amorim as their new head coach, the Old Trafford hierarchy can breathe a sigh of relief.
Ruben Amorim's decision to join AC Milan effectively removes Manchester United's financial obligation to pay the €12 million release clause, saving the club a significant sum.
The move also aligns with Milan's ongoing restructuring under owner Gerry Cardinale and senior advisor Zlatan Ibrahimovic, who have already appointed Bobby Gardiner as chief scout. Amorim is expected to sign a long-term deal at the San Siro, bringing his high-pressing, possession-based philosophy to Italian football.
Other Paper Talk: Premier League Trio Eye Morocco Starlet
Away from the managerial carousel, three Premier League heavyweights are believed to be monitoring Ayyoub Bouaddi, the teenage sensation from Morocco. Arsenal, Liverpool, and Chelsea have all sent scouts to watch the 18-year-old midfielder, who currently plays for French side Lille. The Daily Mail suggests Bouaddi could be available for around £15 million, sparking a potential bidding war.
Meanwhile, Chelsea are reportedly keeping tabs on Crystal Palace defender Maxence Lacroix. The French centre-back has impressed since moving to Selhurst Park, and the Daily Mail claims the Blues see him as a long-term successor to Thiago Silva.
Transfer Whispers: Lewandowski, West Ham, and More
In other transfer news, Robert Lewandowski is mulling over a stunning move to Chicago Fire in MLS. The former Barcelona striker has an offer on the table, with Fabrizio Romano confirming the 37-year-old is seriously considering the switch. If completed, it would reunite him with former Bayern teammate Xherdan Shaqiri.
At West Ham United, owner Daniel Kretinsky has insisted the club does not need to sell its best players despite relegation to the Championship. Jarrod Bowen and Mateus Fernandes have been linked with exits, but the Times reports Kretinsky is determined to keep the core together for an immediate promotion push. However, the Daily Express claims Manchester United's pursuit of Fernandes could fall through, as West Ham are demanding £80 million.
Elsewhere, Newcastle United's head of recruitment Steve Nickson is set to depart after 15 years, as reported by The Athletic, while former England boss Gareth Southgate revealed he turned down a World Cup punditry role to avoid distractions.
Quick Facts
United's saving: Up to £10m in compensation payments
Amorim's new club: AC Milan
Bouaddi's suitors: Arsenal, Liverpool, Chelsea
Lewandowski's option: Chicago Fire (MLS)
Key Takeaways
- Manchester United are set to save up to £10 million thanks to Ruben Amorim's move to AC Milan, avoiding his release clause.
- Arsenal, Liverpool, and Chelsea are battling for Lille's teenage midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi.
- Chelsea are also targeting Crystal Palace centre-back Maxence Lacroix.
- Robert Lewandowski could follow Lionel Messi to MLS, with Chicago Fire making an offer.
- West Ham insist they won't sell key players despite relegation, but Manchester United's pursuit of Mateus Fernandes may stall.
