Manchester United are eyeing Morten Hjulmand as a direct replacement for Kobbie Mainoo
Right now, Kobbie Mainoo’s status at United is shaky. He hasn’t played a minute in the Premier League this season under Ruben Amorim. His only full game was in the EFL Cup, where the team lost to Grimsby Town, and he was benched in both league games.
With the 2026 World Cup in mind, Mainoo has made it apparent that he wants the chance to play frequently. United rejected his request to go on loan from the club. Mainoo will have to compete with Bruno Fernandes for a midfield position, according to a recent statement from Amorim. Due to the significant discrepancy between his existing wage and the representatives’ demands, negotiations for a new contract have also halted.
Hjulmand’s discussion and United’s plans
In light of this, Manchester United has now targeted Morten Hjulmand, the captain of Sporting Lisbon. United is reportedly evaluating him as a possible alternative, particularly given Brighton’s high asking price for Carlos Baleba, according to reports from The Athletic. Adam Wharton, a young player from Crystal Palace and Hjulmand, was on the list as soon as the club pulled out of the competition for Baleba. Since Sporting has already sold Viktor Gyokeres to Arsenal and is not in the mood to let go of any more important players, it does not appear that it will be simple to get Hjulmand to leave the team.
The Danish midfielder is familiar with Amorim. He acquired the Danish midfielder from Lecce while he was at Sporting, and he utilized him nonstop for two seasons. The now 26-year-old took over as captain during that period, solidified his position with his impressive performances, and played a major role in winning the league title. He has appeared in all four of Sporting’s opening games and is under contract until 2028. In this case, United will have to wait until January or spend a hefty sum if they wish to acquire him.
Mainoo vs Hjulmand
The question now becomes whether or not the idea of bringing Hjulmand in rather than giving Mainoo a chance is the appropriate one. Although Mainoo is young, extremely talented, and the club’s future, his style doesn’t entirely align with Amorim’s requirements. He makes an effort to advance, yet occasionally he becomes defensive. At the moment, Amorim is looking for a player that can support the team from the back. This is where Hjulmand fits in. He can rapidly recover the ball, break up plays, and stand as a defensive screen. He is even more significant because of his leadership and game-reading skills.
The Sporting CP captain can be used by Amorim as a double pivot in a 4-2-3-1 or as the only holding midfielder in a 4-3-3. Bruno Fernandes and the other midfield players will be free to attack as a result. The team’s balance may benefit right away, but losing Mainoo may end up costing more in the long run. If the team wants to bring in Hjulmand, we think they should send Mainoo on loan to get experience. Together, the two choices will improve the team.
In actuality, though, it is nearly difficult to remove Hjulmand from Sporting during the next four days. A deal appears challenging at the moment, but perhaps things will change in January. Finding a midfield balance and keeping Mainoo are currently United’s major challenges. Manchester United is prepared to entertain offers for the midfield star this summer of at least £45 million.
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