6 recoveries/game: Man Utd can now sign 26yo midfielder for £35m, big discount on clause

Manchester United have been handed a big boost in signing Sporting CP midfielder Morten Hjulmand ahead of the summer transfer window.

The Red Devils are poised to bolster their defensive midfield department for next season, with Casemiro confirmed to depart on a free transfer.

Manuel Ugarte has not met expectations as a number six, and the Uruguayan ace could likewise be shown the exit door at the end of the campaign.

Hence, there is the possibility of two signings for the position. Man United have now been handed a boost in landing their long-term target, Hjulmand.

Back in the summer, it was claimed that there was an ‘appreciation‘ for Hjulmand with former manager Ruben Amorim having worked with him at Sporting.

United did not proceed with an approach, but they now have the chance to land him on the cheap, as his current contract expires in the summer of 2028.

The Dane has a release clause worth £70 million in his contract, but O Jogo (page 9) claim that he is ‘expected to leave’ Sporting for around £35m.

Hjulmand would be a huge bargain signing at £35m

Juventus were hot on the trail of Hjulmand last summer, but he reaffirmed his commitment to Sporting by turning down three times his current salary.

This probably suggests that he has a gentleman’s agreement to leave the Portuguese champions next season. O Jogo claim that he could be signed for €40m (£35m).

At that price, the former Lecce man would be a huge bargain signing for the Red Devils. Hjulmand has a 91 per cent passing accuracy in the Primeira Liga this season.

He has won 67 percent of his duels alongside two tackles. He has also been brilliant with his work rate and recovery pace. The Dane has made six recoveries per outing.

His statistics are identical in the Champions League, with a better passing accuracy of 93 percent. Hence, Hjulmand has shown that he can shine on the big stage.

United held an interest in the player when Amorim was in charge. The club seem focused on pursuing a Premier League-based signing to replace Casemiro for now.

However, with Elliot Anderson seemingly angling for a move to Manchester City, it makes sense to shift the focus to Hjulmand, who could be signed for a lower fee.

Sporting are obviously unlikely to sell him for £35m with add-ons, and may want some additional performance-based bonuses as part of the transfer agreement.

Still, he would represent a good acquisition for the Red Devils. The club could also go on to pursue another top-class midfielder. Atalanta’s Ederson would be ideal.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com & Sofascore.com

Article written by Sri Aswin .