Man United Set to Battle Man City in the Race to Sign £69m Midfielder – Report | OneFootball

Manchester United Eyeing Morten Hjulmand: A Rising Midfield Star

Manchester United’s summer plans appear to have taken an interesting turn, with reports from A Bola confirming the club’s firm interest in Sporting CP’s Morten Hjulmand. The Danish midfielder has quietly become one of the most talked-about players in Europe, and with good reason.

Hjulmand’s Meteoric Rise in Lisbon

Hjulmand joined Sporting from Lecce in the summer of 2023 for €18 million, making him at the time the club’s second-biggest signing, just behind Viktor Gyokeres. But as A Bola highlight, he has exceeded “and in a very clear way” all expectations from the Sporting board.

In his debut season, the Dane made 49 appearances, 43 as a starter, with four goals and four assists. His follow-up campaign was no less impressive: 47 games, 45 as a starter, contributing three goals and two assists. More crucially, Hjulmand was handed the captain’s armband, a clear sign of his growing influence at Alvalade.

Juve Move Blocked by Price Tag

A Bola reported that Juventus were the first major European side to make an approach, testing the waters with a €30-40 million bid. However, the Italian giants quickly discovered that “the amount requested by the Lions to release the captain is out of the reach of the ‘vecchia signora.’” Sporting are adamant they will only consider offers close to Hjulmand’s €80 million release clause.

Photo: IMAGO

Amorim’s Influence Behind United’s Interest

It is no secret that current Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim knows Hjulmand’s qualities intimately, having worked with him for two seasons. According to A Bola, “the Lions know that Amorim also likes the Danish midfielder a lot.” This inside knowledge likely fuels United’s interest, with Amorim seeking to bring in a player he trusts as he shapes his squad for a crucial second season at Old Trafford.

Midfield Reinforcement or Market Signal?

While Manchester United face competition for Hjulmand’s signature, including reported admiration from Hugo Viana’s Manchester City, the situation feels tailor-made for Amorim. Bringing in his former captain could bolster United’s midfield both in quality and leadership, addressing issues that were evident throughout last season.

As the transfer window progresses, Hjulmand’s name is one to watch closely. His combination of tactical intelligence, physicality and leadership make him a natural target for Europe’s elite, but with an €80 million price tag, only a select few can realistically compete.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

As Manchester United fans, this report from A Bola sparks both excitement and curiosity. Having seen Ruben Amorim arrive and deliver a promising first season, supporters are eager to see how he will strengthen the side. Bringing in Morten Hjulmand feels like more than just adding a talented midfielder, it is about importing Amorim’s footballing vision and dressing room authority.

Hjulmand is not just a numbers player, his leadership at Sporting, where he became captain in just his second year, shows character and resilience. For a United side that has often lacked midfield balance and bite, his presence alongside Bruno Fernandes and Kobbie Mainoo could form a dynamic and disciplined trio.

There is also symbolism here: Amorim showing he can attract top-tier talent he has personally developed is a statement to fans and rivals alike. Of course, the €80 million release clause is eye-watering, but with United’s need for smart recruitment and long-term thinking, fans will be hoping the board backs Amorim in this pursuit.

Ultimately, the idea of Hjulmand pulling the strings at Old Trafford next season is a thrilling one, and it would mark a decisive step forward in the Amorim era.