Ruben Amorim Aims to Reshape Manchester United Squad in Summer Transfer Window
Ruben Amorim is set to make significant changes to the Manchester United squad during the upcoming summer transfer window, with plans to offload several players who have failed to meet the required standards. The Red Devils have struggled in the bottom half of the Premier League table throughout the 2024/25 season, falling well short of the expectations of their passionate fanbase.
However, the 40-year-old manager has only had one transfer window to influence the team since taking charge at Old Trafford. More time is needed before a fair assessment of his tenure can be made. Amorim will be hoping for the club’s hierarchy to back him in his mission to restore United to the summit of English football—a position they once dominated under the legendary Sir Alex Ferguson.
Despite his ambitions, it appears unlikely that Amorim will be able to reunite with one of his former players, following recent developments over the past 48 hours.
Manchester United Set to Miss Out on Geovany Quenda
According to David Ornstein, Chelsea have agreed a deal to sign Sporting CP wing-back Geovany Quenda for a fee of around £40 million—a staggering amount for a 17-year-old. The agreement will see Quenda spend next season on loan at Sporting before signing an eight-year contract with Chelsea and joining them in the summer of 2026.
Manchester United had previously been in the race for Quenda’s signature, with Amorim undoubtedly keen on a reunion given the youngster’s impressive form under his guidance in Portugal. Quenda has recorded two goals and six assists in 43 appearances across all competitions this season, leaving United to potentially regret not securing a deal before Chelsea stepped in.
The Manchester United Star Who Could Be Amorim’s Next Quenda
While missing out on Quenda is a blow, United fans need not worry. The club already has a promising young talent who could surpass the Portuguese star if given first-team opportunities in the near future.
Patrick Dorgu, who joined United from Lecce in January, has already made an impact in his short time at Old Trafford. The 19-year-old left-back has featured six times across all competitions, with his standout performance coming in the Europa League. However, the right side of the defense remains a question mark, and Amorim may have his own version of Quenda in 17-year-old Bendito Mantato.
Mantato has excelled at youth level, showcasing his versatility by playing as a full-back or on either flank in attack. His ability to adapt to a wing-back role in Amorim’s preferred five-back system makes him an exciting prospect. The youngster has scored seven goals and provided one assist in 14 youth appearances this season, highlighting his attacking prowess.
Bendito Mantato’s Stats for United at Youth Level (2024/25)
| Competition | Games | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|
| U18 Premier League | 10 | 6 | 0 |
| FA Youth Cup | 1 | 1 | 0 |
| UEFA Youth League | 2 | 0 | 1 |
| Premier League 2 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
| Total | 14 | 7 | 1 |
Stats via Transfermarkt
Analyst Ben Mattinson has described Mantato as “creative” and “explosive,” with qualities that could see him thrive in a deeper role, much like Quenda. His 1v1 ability and recovery pace make him an ideal candidate for a wing-back position, combining defensive solidity with attacking threat.
Amorim’s Track Record with Young Talent
Amorim’s success in developing young players at Sporting CP suggests he could work similar magic with Mantato at Manchester United. While integrating such a young talent into the senior squad carries risks, Amorim’s high-risk, high-reward approach has paid off in the past. Mantato’s potential could help United fans quickly forget about missing out on Quenda.
As the summer transfer window approaches, Amorim will be looking to build a squad capable of returning Manchester United to their former glory. With the right backing and a focus on nurturing young talent, the future at Old Trafford could be bright.
