Manchester United Given Green Light to Chase €60m Sporting Midfielder Morten Hjulmand
Manchester United have been given the green light to pursue Sporting CP midfielder Morten Hjulmand, valued at €60m, as they accelerate summer rebuild plans.
Manchester United have reportedly received encouragement to push ahead with a move for Sporting CP midfielder Morten Hjulmand, with the Portuguese club open to negotiations for a fee in the region of €60 million. The 24-year-old Danish international has emerged as a key target for the Red Devils as they look to overhaul their midfield ahead of the 2025/26 season.
United's Midfield Revamp Takes Shape
Manager Erik ten Hag is understood to have identified the midfield as a priority area for reinforcement, with the club aiming to add more physicality and ball-winning ability to the engine room. Hjulmand, who joined Sporting from Lecce in 2023, has impressed with his combative style and passing range, making him an ideal candidate to partner Kobbie Mainoo in the middle of the park.
Sources close to the negotiations suggest that Sporting are willing to sanction a sale this summer, as they look to balance their books and fund their own transfer targets. The Portuguese side value Hjulmand at €60m, a price United are prepared to meet, especially given the player's desire to test himself in the Premier League.
Competition for Hjulmand's Signature
United are not alone in their pursuit, however. Several Premier League rivals, including Arsenal and Liverpool, have also been monitoring the situation. But the Red Devils have stolen a march by opening dialogue with the player's representatives, and Hjulmand is said to be keen on a move to Old Trafford.
With a release clause reportedly set at €80m, United are confident of securing a deal closer to the €60m mark through structured payments and add-ons. The club's hierarchy believes that Hjulmand's age and potential make him a sound investment for the long term.
What Hjulmand Would Bring to United
Hjulmand is primarily a defensive midfielder but has the versatility to operate in a box-to-box role. He averages over 2.5 tackles and 1.5 interceptions per game in the Primeira Liga, while also contributing to build-up play with an 88% pass completion rate. His leadership qualities have also been noted, having captained Sporting on occasion.
United fans will be hoping that if the deal goes through, Hjulmand can provide the steel that has been missing since the departure of Nemanja Matić. With Christian Eriksen's future uncertain and Casemiro's decline, a new midfield anchor is essential for Ten Hag's system.
Financial Implications
The €60m fee would represent a significant outlay for United, who are also targeting a striker and a centre-back this summer. However, the club is expected to generate funds through player sales, with the likes of Harry Maguire, Scott McTominay, and Jadon Sancho likely to depart. Ineos, United's new owners, have sanctioned a substantial transfer budget to restore the club to the top of English football.
As the summer window approaches, Hjulmand's name is set to be one of the most talked-about in the transfer market. For now, United have the green light, but they will need to act swiftly to fend off rival interest.