‘Man United get Hjulmand boost as Juventus shortlist Spurs outcast’
Manchester United have received a boost in their pursuit of Morten Hjulmand as Juventus begin identifying alternative options.
The Red Devils are in the midst of a summer rebuild following a miserable 15th-place finish in the Premier League and a Europa League final defeat to Tottenham last season.
Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha have already come in to bolster the attack, with United in the hunt for Benjamin Sesko to fill the No.9 position.
However, United need improved options right across the pitch, and Hjulmand could present a very interesting opportunity.
Ruben Amorim wants Hjulmand reunion
Ruben Amorim is already extremely familiar with Hjulmand, with the 19-time Denmark international playing under him 65 times during their spell together at Sporting CP — winning two Primeira Liga titles and a Taca de Portugal along the way.
What’s more, it’s understood Amorim has been making efforts to reunite with the Sporting CP captain at Old Trafford.
One major sticking point in United’s pursuit of Hjulmand is serious interest from Italian giants Juventus, who see the 26-year-old as their main midfield target this summer.
The Old Lady have Manuel Locatelli and Khephren Thuram to hold down their midfield, alongside the versatile Weston McKennie.
However, the likes of Arthur Melo, Douglas Luiz and Fabio Miretti face uncertain futures in Turin, leading to a possible shortage for Igor Tudor — who is looking to lead Juve out of a lean spell.
Man United have Hjulmand opening
Amorim may finally be presented with his chance to sign Hjulmand.
According to the La Gazzetta dello Sport, Juventus are now starting to explore other options to bolster their midfield as they sit €20million short of Sporting CP’s valuation of the player — despite agreeing on personal terms.
Among Juve’s list of alternatives are Brighton’s Matt O’Riley, Sofyan Amrabat of Fenerbahce, and Spurs star Yves Bissouma.
The latter could be particularly interesting for Juventus, given Spurs are actively looking to move Bissouma on as they prepare a swoop for England midfielder Conor Gallagher from Atletico Madrid — as reported by Football Insider.
Whereas Hjulmand still has three years left to run on his contract, Bissouma is in the final year of his, presenting a much more affordable option to Juventus.
Should the Old Lady opt for the more economical approach, Amorim might well push United to pounce on Hjulmand, who will offer serious dynamism and familiarity to his patchwork midfield.