Liverpool get MAJOR Ruben Amorim boost as manager hunt takes DECISIVE turn

Liverpool's search for a new manager to replace Jurgen Klopp is expected to take a decisive twist next week, according to reports from Portugal.

Sporting CP coach Ruben Amorim is hot favourite to replace Klopp following the decision of former Anfield favourite Xabi Alonso to stay at Bayer Leverkusen next season.

Amorim's current team took a massive step towards claiming the Portuguese title on Saturday night, claiming a crucial 2-1 win over bitter city rivals Benfica in the Lisbon derby.

READ MORE: Why Amorim ticks more boxes than Xabi Alonso ever did - Sam McGuire

That victory leaves Sporting four points clear of Benfica in the title race with a game in hand, and will now reportedly have a major impact on Amorim's expected move to Merseyside.

Amorim contract talks to speed up

Respected Portuguese journalist Pedro Sepulveda, writing on X, said negotiations between the Reds and the 39-year-old Amorim will now gather pace. He expects the two sides to agree personal terms in the coming days.

"This Sporting CP victory over Benfica by 2-1 today will speed up negotiations between Ruben Amorim and LFC. The Reds hope to reach a full agreement on the terms of the contract next week with the Portuguese coach".

Sepulveda has already revealed that Amorim's current package in Lisbon is worth €3million net plus bonuses, meaning agreement on a suitable Anfield package should not be an obstacle.

READ MORE: How Liverpool could line up under Ruben Amorim in 2024-25 season

There is one other stumbling block for Liverpool in their Amorim pursuit though - agreeing a fee with Sporting to get him out of his current contract with the Portuguese giants.

Sepulveda has reported that a deal there could be done for around €15million, which would be less than his reported buyout clause.

Saturday's derby victory means Amorim is right on course to end his stay with Sporting in the most glorious of manners. As well as being hot favourites to win the title, they are also in the Portuguese Cup final after another derby win over Benfica in the two-leg semi-finals.