Sir Jim Ratcliffe 'wanted a different manager' at Manchester United before the club opted to appoint Ruben Amorim, according to a report.
Amorim is on the verge of replacing Erik ten Hag following his sacking at Man United.
The club have reached a deal with Sporting, which includes paying an extra fee.
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Amorim, however, is set to take charge of the Portuguese side until the international break, meaning he's set to lead the Red Devils against Ipswich Town on November 24.
But, according to a new report, Ratcliffe 'wanted a different manager' before deciding to hire Amorim.
Fulham's Marco Silva, Brentford's Thomas Frank and former Barcelona boss Xavi were identified by Man United.
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The Daily Mail claims that the INEOS owner 'liked the idea' of appointing a homegrown manager or at least one with Premier League experience.
Members of the club's leadership committee, though, wanted to 'cast their net wider' and chose Amorim.
That decision came from sporting director Dan Ashworth, CEO Omar Berrada and director of sport Sir Dave Brailsford.
Silva would have cost Man United £10 million in compensation had INEOS chiefs followed through on their pursuit.
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The Portuguese's existing deal expires at the end of next season.
He's enhanced his reputation in England's top flight following the job he has done at Fulham, clearly impressing Man United, who have ultimately opted for his fellow countryman.
On Thursday, Amorim said the 'soap opera is coming to an end' regarding his future.
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"The soap opera is coming to an end," he said in a press conference. "The fact that I can't be so clear creates a lot of difficulty for me."
Asked why the deal was taking so long to wrap up and when it would be made official, he replied: "It is a negotiation between two clubs. It is never easy - even with the clauses."
Topics: Ruben Amorim, Manchester United, Sir Jim Ratcliffe, Football
Nasir Jabbar