Manchester United have stepped up their midfield rebuild, lodging an official offer for Sporting CP captain Morten Hjulmand in an attempt to outpace Juventus.
Casemiro’s arrival in 2022 brought an immediate lift, but his sharp drop in form has left a void in United’s core. He remains one of the club’s highest earners, yet efforts to move him on have stalled.
Ruben Amorim’s first pre-season match, a sluggish display against Leeds United with Casemiro and Bruno Fernandes in midfield, underlined the need for change.
Improvement came against West Ham when Manuel Ugarte partnered Kobbie Mainoo, but depth remains thin. Toby Collyer’s desire to leave for regular football could further open the door for reinforcements.
Reports from Italian outlet Calciomercato suggest United have tabled a £35 million proposal for Hjulmand, a player who thrived under Amorim at Sporting.
The Danish midfielder is open to reuniting with his former manager at Old Trafford. However, with a £69 million release clause and Sporting holding firm at a minimum of £43 million, negotiations will be tense. Hjulmand’s camp believes his true market value lies between £26 million and £35 million.
Juventus are also admirers, but their finances make it difficult to challenge United’s bid without first cashing in on current assets. That leaves the Premier League side in a position of strength if they choose to press ahead.
At 26, Hjulmand brings leadership, tactical awareness, and familiarity with Amorim’s system—qualities that could stabilise United’s midfield immediately.
For a side in search of pace, control, and identity in the middle, his arrival could be the first step toward a more balanced, competitive team.