It is “highly unlikely” that Sporting Lisbon head coach Ruben Amorim will be West Ham’s next manager, according to Fabrizio Romano.

Taking to X, the journalist revealed that the Hammers have held “initial” talks with the 39-year-old but it is clear that he isn’t interested in replacing David Moyes in the dugout at the London Stadium:

🚨🇵🇹 Rúben Amorim update. Understand after initial round of talks, it’s highly unlikely to see Amorim as new West Ham manager.

Discussions not expected to advance after meeting in London.

Talks on stand-by with Liverpool since last week.

❗️ Amorim keeps his options open. pic.twitter.com/9JvF5J3ANa

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) April 23, 2024

The news will come as a disappointment to most supporters who were excited about the prospect of Amorim succeeding Moyes at the end of the season.

The Portuguese coach has been a massive success at Sporting, where he is on course to win his second league title in the space of four years.

Why has Amorim decided against joining the Hammers?

The interest from Liverpool may have had some influence on Amorim’s decision. While Romano claims that talks with the Reds are on “standby”, Amorim may be hoping that the Merseysiders come back in for him.

From West Ham’s perspective, if a manager is not 100% committed to taking the job, it is better to know sooner rather than later so they can move on to other targets.

Who are the other candidates for the West Ham job?

It has been reported in the last 24 hours that Lille boss Paulo Fonseca is now among the managers that the Irons have shortlisted. The 51-year-old has been interviewed for the Tottenham job in the past.

Other names include two former Chelsea head coaches, Thomas Tuchel and Graham Potter, ex-Wolves manager Julen Lopetegui and former Nottingham Forest coach Steve Cooper.