Manchester United Target Sporting’s Morten Hjulmand for Midfield Reinforcement
Manchester United are reportedly setting their sights on Sporting CP’s Morten Hjulmand, with the Red Devils needing to meet the Danish midfielder’s full release clause. According to Portuguese news outlet Correio da Manha, United will need to pay a substantial €80 million (£67.3 million) to secure Hjulmand’s services.
Morten Hjulmand’s Impact at Sporting CP
Hjulmand, who joined Sporting CP last summer from Lecce for €18 million, played a crucial role in their league-winning campaign. The 24-year-old Danish international recorded three goals and two assists in 30 appearances for Sporting in the 2023-2024 Primeira Liga season, earning an impressive average rating of 7.06. His strong performances have quickly made him a key player under Sporting boss Ruben Amorim, who reportedly considers him ‘untouchable’.
Manchester United’s Midfield Ambitions
The potential acquisition of Hjulmand aligns with Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag’s ambition to strengthen the team’s midfield. Ten Hag, who took the reins at Old Trafford in 2022, has already brought in significant reinforcements this summer, including:
- Dutch forward Joshua Zirkzee from Bologna for €42.5 million
- Talented young defender Leny Yoro from Lille for €62 million
However, these moves have significantly depleted United’s summer budget, adding to the financial constraints under new ownership by INEOS. This might necessitate player sales to balance the books.
Potential Player Sales
Brazilian midfielder Casemiro, despite his reputation as one of the best defensive midfielders of his generation, endured a lackluster season. Casemiro’s performance last season included 25 Premier League appearances with one goal and two assists, but his high wages are seen as a potential obstacle. His hefty wage bill could push United to consider offloading him.
Hjulmand’s Career Path
Hjulmand’s potential move to Manchester United is currently in the realm of speculation. Born on June 25, 1999, the Danish midfielder has had a steady rise in his career, having previously played for:
- FC Copenhagen
- Admira Wacker
- Lecce
His defensive capabilities and midfield versatility have made him an attractive prospect for top European clubs.
Other Midfield Targets
United have also been linked with other midfield targets, including:
- Sofyan Amrabat, who spent the last season on loan at Old Trafford and is expected to return to Fiorentina
- Manuel Ugarte, another midfielder on United’s radar, but negotiations with his current club PSG have stalled
Upcoming Premier League Season
The upcoming Premier League season presents a packed schedule for Manchester United, starting with a match against Fulham on August 16, followed by fixtures against Brighton, Liverpool, and Southampton. If United are to compete at the highest level, reinforcing their midfield with a player of Hjulmand’s caliber could be crucial.
For now, the pursuit of Morten Hjulmand remains a rumor, but Manchester United’s interest in bolstering their midfield options is evident. As the transfer window progresses, it will be interesting to see if United can secure the Danish talent and what strategic moves they will make to fund such a high-profile acquisition.
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