Manchester United target Sporting CP's Morten Hjulmand in midfield rebuild
Manchester United have identified Sporting CP captain Morten Hjulmand as a key midfield target ahead of the summer transfer window, according to reports. The Premier League club, alongside rivals Liverpool, are said to lead the pursuit of the 26-year-old Danish international, who is viewed as a potential long-term successor to Casemiro in the defensive midfield role.
United's interest is longstanding, having monitored Hjulmand since his move from Lecce to Sporting in August 2023. His development in Portugal has been rapid, culminating in him taking the captain's armband and establishing himself as one of the Primeira Liga's standout performers. Former Sporting manager Ruben Amorim, who worked closely with Hjulmand, is understood to have previously recommended the player to United.
According to a report from CaughtOffside, Hjulmand's contract contains an €80 million (£69.5m) release clause. However, it emerged in February that a gentleman's agreement is in place with Sporting that would allow him to depart for a reduced fee of around €50 million (£43.5m). This potential discount aligns with the strategy of United's new INEOS leadership, who are reportedly targeting a marquee midfield signing—such as Newcastle's Elliot Anderson—followed by a more cost-effective addition.
A United scout was dispatched to watch Sporting's Champions League clash against Arsenal on Wednesday, with Hjulmand expected to be a primary focus of their observation. The same official is also likely to have assessed Sporting's highly-rated 22-year-old centre-back, Ousmane Diomande, who is another player on United's radar. Diomande, like his teammate, has an €80m clause but could be available for a fee between €40-50 million (£35-43.5m), with Crystal Palace also maintaining a strong interest.
The potential double swoop underscores United's intent to strengthen their spine ahead of next season. Hjulmand's profile as a combative, ball-winning midfielder who has assumed leadership responsibilities addresses a clear area of need for Erik ten Hag's side. His acquisition would facilitate a transition away from the veteran Casemiro, whose future at Old Trafford remains uncertain. For Sporting, the sale at the reported reduced fee would still represent significant profit on a player signed less than two years ago, funding their own rebuild.
While Tottenham Hotspur are also credited with an interest in Hjulmand, the current narrative positions Manchester United and Liverpool at the front of the queue. Any move is expected to develop after the season concludes, with United's new sporting hierarchy aiming to make a decisive early impact in the transfer market.
