The latest Manchester United news and gossip as Ruben Amorim's future at the club continues to be a topic of discussion
Carlos Baleba
Carlos Baleba of Brighton has caught the eye of Man United
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Manchester United will look to return to winning ways in the Premier League when Sunderland visit Old Trafford on Saturday.
Ruben Amorim will be under pressure to improve results following a tough start to the new campaign, with United having won only two of their six games, including a victory over Chelsea. The morale-boosting victory over Enzo Maresca's team was undone by Brentford, as they fell to a 3-1 defeat.
Speculation over Amorim's future has grown in recent weeks, but the Manchester Evening News understands that the Portuguese boss retains the backing of the club. Nonetheless, a number of managers - including Gareth Southgate, Oliver Glasner, and Fabian Hurzeler - have been linked with the job at Old Trafford.
"Tough decisions and rumours are always part of this job so you have to accept it, you have to deal with it," Hurzeler said this week. "But I really want to say that I have a lot of respect for Ruben Amorim so I won't talk about his job or any rumours that might come regarding him.
"I'm really privileged to be a coach for Brighton and Hove Albion, I'm very happy here and we still have a lot of work to do."
With that said, MEN Sport has taken a closer look at the latest headlines as Amorim’s future continues to spark debate.
Southgate 'stance' emerges
Former England manager Gareth Southgate would reportedly turn down the opportunity to coach United, if Amorim was to be dismissed. Southgate is believed to not be in rush to return to football, but he is keeping his options open, reportedly within and beyond the sport.
In March 2024, he emerged as a top candidate for the United job when Erik ten Hag's position was under threat, but he declined all approaches. Since leaving his role with England, Southgate has not returned to football, instead focusing on public speaking and motivational work. He has also taken on a role hosting a show for the BBC.
Additionally, talkSPORT reported that Southgate had emerged as one of three names on United's shortlist to potentially replace Amorim. But Fabrizio Romano has since dismissed those claims.
MEN Sport says: While Amorim is thought to still have United’s backing, drawing up a list of potential replacements is not a bad idea if results fail to improve. It allows the club to plan ahead and be prepared.
However, going behind the Portuguese manager's back to contact other candidates could seriously undermine Amorim at a particularly tough time for the United boss.
Baleba 'decision' amid Amorim future 'uncertainty'
United are targeting Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba regardless of Amorim's future, according to TEAMtalk. United tried to sign Baleba late in the summer transfer window but were unable to reach a deal due to Brighton's high asking price.
The Seagulls reportedly sought a fee similar to the £115million they received for Moises Caicedo in 2023. While Amorim is believed to be a big admirer, the report claims United are still set to pursue a move for the 21-year-old, regardless of whether the manager remains in charge.
It is also claimed they could make a formal approach for his services next year. Liverpool are reportedly tracking the youngster as well.
MEN Sport says: Regardless of whether Amorim remains in charge of the club next season, United should still pursue Baleba, as he represents a long-term investment for the squad. His talent, versatility, and potential for growth make him a player who could influence the team for years to come - and United need more of that.
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