Man Utd target 'cut-price' alternative to Baleba who already knows Amorim well

Manchester United’s midfield rebuild could see Sporting Lisbon captain Morten Hjulmand arrive instead of Brighton’s Carlos Baleba.

United manager Ruben Amorim knows Hjulmand well, having worked closely with the Danish international during his time in Lisbon.

The 25-year-old has been a key figure in Sporting’s title push, renowned for his defensive discipline, positional awareness, and leadership qualities, reported A Bola.

While Baleba remains the club’s primary target, Brighton’s steep valuation has forced United’s recruitment team to explore additional options — and Hjulmand’s familiarity with Amorim’s tactical demands makes him a natural candidate.

Hjulmand’s playing style is defined by his ability to shield the back line, break up opposition attacks, and initiate transitions with crisp, forward-thinking passes.

His reading of the game and composure under pressure could bring balance to a United midfield that, at times last season, struggled to control matches against high-pressing opponents.

Importantly, his arrival would not require the kind of nine-figure investment that Baleba might command, allowing the club to allocate resources to other positions before the window closes.

Sporting are reluctant to lose their captain this late in the summer, but United’s financial muscle and the player’s potential interest in a Premier League move could shift the equation.

Reports in Portugal suggest no formal bid has yet been made, but intermediaries have sounded out Hjulmand’s camp to gauge willingness. Hjulmand has a release clause of 80million euros.

For Amorim, the appeal is obvious: a trusted lieutenant who already understands his high-intensity, structured midfield system.

For United’s board, it’s a chance to secure a proven leader with Champions League experience at a more palatable cost.

Still, the move is not without competition. Several Serie A sides, including Roma and Napoli, have previously tracked Hjulmand, and his stock is rising after an impressive campaign and strong performances at Euro 2024 with Denmark.

Whether as first choice or fallback, United’s interest in Hjulmand signals a clear strategic theme to their transfer business: targeting players with tactical fit, leadership skills, and the character to handle the demands of Old Trafford. And with the season’s opener fast approaching, this is one pursuit that could move quickly if the Baleba deal stalls.