Ruben Amorim: Journalist explains what’s REALLY going on with Liverpool

A Portuguese journalist has attempted to explain what’s really going on between Liverpool and Sporting CP boss Ruben Amorim. There has been plenty of speculation already this week.

It was reported on Tuesday that Liverpool had a verbal agreement with Ruben Amorim to take over as manager at the end of the season. That was the line from Florian Plettenberg and Sky Germany, anyway. Betfair even suspended betting on him to succeed Jurgen Klopp,

Only numerous outlets quickly claimed that was false - including Record out of Portugal. There’s no agreement, Sporting CP still haven’t been contacted, and in fact, Amorim hasn’t had face-to-face negotiations.

So what is going on and what is the lay of the land? Bruno Andrade, a journalist for CNN Portugal and UOL Esporte attempted to explain the situation.

He claims Amorim has held an interview for the job at Liverpool. His agents now lead discussions with the Reds and things are positive.

Liverpool agree to the terms that should advance those talks but with nothing finalised. Importantly, Sporting still aren’t involved and that certainly prevents any sort of proper agreement here.

It does all sound positive, though. The next step would be for Liverpool to contact Sporting and either trigger Amorim’s release clause - sitting at somewhere below £18m - or negotiate compensation.

Ruben Amorim and Liverpool

Amorim is far and away the favourite for the Liverpool job and at this point, it would be a massive surprise for anyone else to take over. The Reds do need to commit but that’s not the only obstacle.

There are also rival clubs who want him. Chelsea supposedly have eyes on Amorim, while Manchester United could also get involved (per Record). Then there’s just the fact that Sporting are in a title race and their manager likely doesn’t want distractions.

Liverpool are a very big distraction. And that might mean talks won’t progress for another few weeks.