Manchester United are reportedly weighing up a move for Sporting CP captain Morten Hjulmand after their attempts to sign Carlos Baleba from Brighton fell through, according to The Sun.
Throughout this summer’s transfer window, United have devoted the bulk of their spending power to bolstering the attacking department.
Significant investments have been made in players such as Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo, and Benjamin Sesko.
With those deals wrapped up, manager Ruben Amorim has now turned his attention to reinforcing other areas of the squad — particularly central midfield.
A deal for Baleba had been pursued as another major signing, but United have now accepted that they will not secure the Cameroonian’s signature this summer.
The focus has therefore shifted to a player Amorim knows extremely well from his time managing in Portugal — Morten Hjulmand.
Hjulmand, described by football journalist Zach Lowy as an “absolute monster” in midfield, was a standout performer under Amorim at Sporting.
Since joining the Lisbon club, he has amassed 65 appearances, helped secure two league titles, lifted the Taça de Portugal, and eventually rose to the role of club captain.
His leadership, physicality, and tactical intelligence make him an appealing target for United as they look to add grit and stability to their midfield.
With the Baleba pursuit postponed until at least next summer, Manchester United are reportedly preparing a £50 million bid for Hjulmand.
While his contract contains a £68 million release clause, Sporting are believed to be open to negotiations and could be willing to accept the lower figure if it includes performance-related add-ons.
United are also said to be keeping a close watch on Adam Wharton of Crystal Palace, though that transfer would be complicated by both the limited time left in the window and Palace’s reluctance to sell.
Despite this, Hjulmand is considered the more attainable option, especially given his positive working relationship with Amorim.
Importantly, Hjulmand is reportedly open to making the switch to the Premier League, even though Manchester United are not currently playing in European competitions.
His familiarity with Amorim’s system could help ease his transition into the squad, and Amorim is thought to value the leadership and discipline he would bring to Old Trafford.
With just two weeks remaining before the transfer window closes, the next steps will depend on whether United can reach an agreement with Sporting on a suitable fee.
While the Portuguese club are in a strong bargaining position due to Hjulmand’s contract length and importance, the willingness to negotiate below the release clause gives United hope of securing a deal before the deadline.
