Report: Manchester United now want “fantastic” Manchester City target in January

Ruben Amorim’s Manchester United want to sign Sporting CP skipper Morten Hjulmand in the upcoming winter transfer window.Morten Hjulmand’s consistent performances for Sporting CP have resulted in interest from across Europe. Multiple top clubs are willing to battle for his signature, and according to Record via SportWitness, Manchester United are keen on signing the Danish international in January.The 26-year-old hasn’t looked back since joining the Portuguese outfit from Lecce back in 2023. He has established himself as one of their mainstays, and Sporting have handed him the captain’s armband on the back of his consistent performances.Manchester United are keen on HjulmandHjulmand’s work has attracted interest from some of the biggest clubs. Manchester United are one of the clubs that have been linked with him for a while. The Red Devils could push for his signature in the upcoming transfer window as Ruben Amorim looks for more quality in the centre of the park.The Portuguese manager wants to further strengthen his midfield rotation. He was the one who brought Hjulmand to Sporting, and he is now keen on reuniting with him at Old Trafford.Amorim is a massive admirer of the 26-year-old and considers him just the perfect fit for his system. With Casemiro’s long-term future uncertain, Manuel Ugarte failing to have the desired impact and Kobbie Mainoo pushing for a move away, a player like Hjulmand can certainly help. Amorim has hailed Hjulmand as “fantastic”. Manchester United encounter obstacles in Hjulmand pursuitMorten Hjulmand is already well acquainted with Ruben Amorim. (Photo by Gualter Fatia/Getty Images)However, Sporting won’t let him leave without a fight. They would straightaway point towards his €80 million release clause for any potential mid-season transfer.Manchester United will look to strike a deal for a lower figure, but that looks unlikely with his contract running until 2028. Apart from that, Amorim’s team will also face stiff competition from rivals Manchester City.Pep Guardiola’s team are also very keen on his signature, and they have strong links with Sporting thanks to Hugo Viana. Meanwhile, Sporting seem confident about keeping him at the club, having reached an agreement with him last year that ensures a significant cash bonus if he doesn’t leave this season.