Man United face challenge to sign £61m PL star after Amorim exit

Manchester United are the biggest topic of the January transfer window, and it’s not for any business on the books this new year.

The club announced this morning that they had parted ways with their manager Ruben Amorim, following an explosive outburst in his post-match press conference aimed at the board.

Speaking after the 1-1 draw with Leeds United at Elland Road, Amorim responded to questions about his role:

“I noticed that you received selective information about everything. I came here to be the manager of Manchester United, not to be the coach of Manchester United. That is clear.”

“I know that my name is not Tuchel, is not Conte, is not Mourinho, but I’m the manager of Manchester United. It’s going to be like this for 18 months, or until the board decide to change. That was my point. I want to finish with that. I’m not going to quit. I will do my job until another guy comes here to replace me.”

Sky Sports claim that the Red Devils’ decision ultimately came down to Amorim’s ‘emotional and inconsistent behaviour’ and they will now search for their next manager, while Darren Fletcher takes charge in a caretaker role.

Man United are currently sixth in the Premier League, which represents a significant improvement on last season, but with just 1.24 points per game, Amorim was likely already on thin ice.

The January transfer window is no stranger to managerial transition, but it will be interesting to see whether United prioritise strengthening the squad over the coming month, or take their time in appointing Amorim’s successor.

It is no secret that they are in the market to revamp their entire midfield, with continued links to several players across the Premier League and Europe.

Crystal Palace star Adam Wharton has been linked with a move to Old Trafford for months and continues to be a target for the Red Devils.

However, a new report has revealed that they are not alone in their interest, with another European giant now joining the race to secure his signature this summer.

According to Spanish outlet AS, Real Madrid have entered the battle to sign Wharton, alongside Manchester United, Liverpool, Chelsea and Manchester City.

The report claims a move would require a significant investment of around €70m (£61m), with Palace expecting a bidding war that could surpass the €65m (£56m) they received for Eberechi Eze last summer.

There is no doubt that Wharton would be warmly welcomed at Old Trafford, with United’s midfield either ageing or failing to reach its potential.

Casemiro is approaching the latter stages of his career and is set to be out of contract this summer, while Bruno Fernandes is also in his 30s.

The skipper’s sell-on value will only diminish with each passing season, despite persistent links away from the club over the last 12 months.

Manuel Ugarte has been a consistent feature under Amorim, often at the expense of Kobbie Mainoo, with both midfielders linked with potential exits, presenting a real opportunity for a complete refresh in the centre of the pitch.

The future of these players will, of course, depend on the preferences of the next manager, but securing Wharton would represent a huge statement of intent as United look to re-establish themselves as a powerhouse.

The talented 21-year-old has been one of the most talked-about players in the Premier League over the last year and is widely expected to feature in Thomas Tuchel’s World Cup plans for England this summer.

Wharton’s strengths lie in his passing range, ability to play through balls and set-piece delivery, cementing his status as one of the most reliable and dynamic midfielders in the top flight.

His current level, combined with the potential to develop even further, makes him one of the hottest prospects in European football, and United will face stiff competition if they are unable to match the ambition of their rivals.

With that said, in the immediate term, United must stabilise the situation at Old Trafford to rebuild trust and credibility, ensuring they can offer an attractive project capable of convincing elite players to choose them over clubs such as Real Madrid.

Rebekka Arnold is an experienced writer with a strong background in digital media, PR and football journalism.

Since 2021, Rebekka has written opinion pieces and match reaction content for Football Fancast, part of the Snack Media network, building on her growing presence in the football community through viral Twitter content and podcasting.

Now at Transfer Tavern, Rebekka brings her sharp eye for analysis and deep passion for the game to deliver engaging football opinion and breaking transfer news content.