Liverpool had ‘Ruben Amorim contract ready’ before move collapses amid Arne Slot wait

Liverpool were reportedly ready to sign Sporting Lisbon head coach Ruben Amorim before their chairman Francisco Varandas made a last-minute change to the deal.

The Reds have been on the hunt for their Jurgen Klopp replacement since the start of the year and Xabi Alonso was initially the favourite. However, after leading Bayer Leverkusen to an exceptional season, the former Liverpool midfielder has opted to stay put.

Amorim would become the next favorite for the job, but it soon became apparent that Feyenoord’s Arne Slot would be the man to take over as Klopp’s successor. The pivot to the Dutchman came out of left field and according to journalist Christian Falk, the Sporting boss was incredibly close to being in Slot’s position.

READ MORE: Slot confirms to become Liverpool’s next manager

READ MORE: Klopp’s take on FSG’s strategy

It is understood that the contract was ready to be signed by the Portuguese and he was happy to make the move to the Premier League. However, Varandas decided to seek compensation of 20 million euros instead of the agreed 10 million euros.

Unfortunately, Liverpool were unwilling to do so, according to Falk, and thus pulled out of the deal. Such a late turn of events is said to have infuriated Amorim, who was looking forward to the challenge at Anfield.

Amorim admitted he met with West Ham to become their new manager after it became apparent that David Moyes would be leaving the London Stadium. The 39-year-old has since apologized to his club’s supporters, admitting it was a mistake to meet another club at that point in the season.

Order our one-on-one Jurgen Klopp worldwide special here and read all our coverage ahead of his emotional departure here