Liverpool and West Ham United are locked in a tight race to sign highly-rated Portuguese manager Ruben Amorim from Sporting Lisbon, MySportDab reports.
Liverpool have been in the hunt for a new manager since Jurgen Klopp struck a bolt from the blue, announcing his decision to draw the curtain on his nine-year stint with the Reds in the summer.
Fast-rising Spanish tactician and Bayer Leverkusen boss Xabi Alonso was a prime target for the Reds to replace Klopp. And they were dealt a big blow when the Bundesliga winner decided to continue with Bayer Leverkusen next season.
After Xabi Alonso’s snub, the Reds turned their attention fully to Amorim who was also on the radar alongside Alonso for the top job at Anfield.
It is understood Liverpool were ready to trigger Amorim’s £12.1m release clause in the summer but were yet to open talks with the 39-year-old.
Now, West Ham United, who are yet to reach a conclusion on the future of David Moyes, have made a shock swoop to rival Liverpool for the services of Amorim.
Portugal outlet CNN Portugal shared footage of the Portuguese taking a flight to the UK for negotiations with West Ham.
Fabrizio Romano confirmed no agreement has been reached between the two parties after the negotiations with Amorim back to Portugal to continue with Sporting Lisbon.
However, it is understood the Hammers have presented their project to the three-time Portugal Cup winner and are ready to go all out for him in the summer.
Meanwhile, Liverpool are lurking behind with their interest in Amorim.
Despite seemingly lagging behind West Ham in the chase for the former Braga boss, they are more likely to beat West Ham in the race for the managerial sensation.
Amorim is open to a move to the Premier League in the summer, and his next stop away from Sporting Lisbon will be a function of his decision amidst the surging interest in his services.
