Ruben Amorim 'wants to make ex-Premier League star' his first Man Utd signing in January

Ruben Amorim 'wants to make a former Premier League star' his first Manchester United signing in January.

Amorim has replaced Erik ten Hag at Man United as he will officially begin his role at the club after this month's international break.

He'll continue to manage Sporting before taking charge of his new side against Ipswich Town on November 24.

Once he arrives at Old Trafford, he'll have a few weeks before the January transfer window opens.

And, according to El Nacional, Amorim has set his sights on strengthening his defence, identifying ex-Chelsea defender Andreas Christensen as a 'priority' signing.

The report states he views Christensen as a 'key piece' to correct defensive deficiencies this season.

It's claimed that Amorim believes the acquisition of the Danish centre-back would give 'solidarity' and 'experience' to Man United's defence.

The 28-year-old was on the books at Chelsea from 2014 to 2022, ending his spell at Stamford Bridge by signing for Barcelona on a free transfer.

He's played just one game for Barca this season, having been ruled out through injury.

Christensen could struggle for regular game-time at Barca, which could prompt a move away from the Camp Nou.

Andreas Christensen in action for Barcelona. Image: Getty

Before Amorim does any business for Man United, he has a couple of Sporting matches to take care of, including the visit of Manchester City in a Champions League clash.

Asked how he feels about becoming a hero to Man United fans by beating Pep Guardiola's team, he replied: "I don’t think about that.

"My focus is on winning the match for Sporting. The conclusions are not important for me because they could be erroneous: if we win tomorrow they will think the new Alex Ferguson has arrived. That will be very difficult. It could increase expectations, I don’t know what is better when I start my new adventure."

The 39-year-old was also asked how taking on Man City can help him when facing the Blues in the Premier League.

"Tomorrow I will learn a lot during the matches, one thing to watch on TV another is to see it live," he said. "When I go to Man Utd I will have a different idea, but I don’t know what I will find."