Manchester United are now viewed as favourites ahead of Juventus in the race to sign Sporting CP midfielder Morten Hjulmand, according to Tuttosport.
The Red Devils have turned their focus to the Denmark international after cooling interest in Brighton’s Carlos Baleba. United boss Ruben Amorim, who previously managed Hjulmand at Sporting, is said to be keen on a reunion and has urged the club to explore a deal this window.
Juventus have been chasing Hjulmand for weeks but only want to pay around half of Sporting’s €80m valuation. That stance has left the door wide open for United, who are seen as more capable financially of meeting the Portuguese club’s demands.
Why Manchester United Have the Edge
United’s midfield remains an area of priority after last season’s inconsistency, and Amorim believes Hjulmand’s tactical discipline and ball-winning ability would immediately improve balance. Having previously coached him in Lisbon, the United boss knows how to use the Dane’s strengths.
Juventus, by contrast, are reliant on selling Douglas Luiz before making any big moves and remain hesitant about Sporting’s valuation. That hesitation could see United move quickly to secure a player widely regarded as one of the best defensive midfielders in Liga Portugal.
The Italian Perspective
“Juventus believe Sporting’s €80m price for Hjulmand is too high, but Manchester United are better placed to pay such a figure. If United move, Juve stand no chance.” — Tuttosport
This reflects a growing belief that United’s financial muscle — combined with Amorim’s personal connection — could tilt the deal decisively in their favour.
Morten Hjulmand 2024/25 Season Stats (Sporting CP)
| Stat (2024/25) | Hjulmand |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 46 |
| Goals | 4 |
| Assists | 6 |
| Tackles Won | 102 |
| Pass Accuracy | 91% |
source: liga portugal & sporting cp data 2024/25
Hjulmand was a standout performer for Sporting last season, making 46 appearances and contributing four goals and six assists. His defensive output was equally impressive, winning over 100 tackles and maintaining a 91% pass accuracy.
Analyst Verdict
From reviewing his last season in Lisbon, Hjulmand combines positional awareness with crisp distribution, making him a natural anchor in midfield. His leadership qualities also stood out, as he regularly captained Sporting during key matches.
For United, he would represent a marquee signing who could free up more attacking players. Juventus’ unwillingness to pay full value plays directly into United’s hands — provided they act decisively.
Key Insights
- United better placed than Juventus to sign Hjulmand.
- Sporting demand €80m, Juve only willing to pay half.
- Amorim pushing for reunion with Danish midfielder.
- Hjulmand played 46 times last season with 91% pass rate.
- United midfield rebuild continues after missing out on Baleba.
What’s Next
The coming days will be crucial as United decide whether to make a formal offer. With Amorim already pressing the case, Old Trafford chiefs could accelerate talks to avoid losing out to another European rival.
Juventus, unless they change stance, risk being priced out completely. For Sporting, the equation is simple: pay the €80m or move aside.
Should Manchester United pay Sporting’s €80m asking price for Hjulmand — or risk losing him to another European club?
1 Comment (last comment by Adem)
First read message
By Adem 18 Aug 2025 13:42
Amorim knows him, but ive seen Casemiro yesterday and Ugarte, both are just not good enough. This guy is still relative young and I think a very good fit for Amorim and his United side. But 80M is crazy a lot of money
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