“We have to go for our backup option since his club has refused to let him join us despite the fact that player is interested. We don’t have a choice but to find a Casemiro replacement” – This is according to Ruben Amorim as Manchester United target £50m swoop for ‘absolute monster’ following collapse of Baleba transfer

Manchester United are reportedly considering a move for Sporting CP captain Morten Hjumland after failing to secure Carlos Baleba, per The Sun.

 

The Red Devils have spent most of the summer reinforcing their attack, investing heavily in players like Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo, and Benjamin Sesko. With those signings complete, manager Ruben Amorim is now shifting focus to other areas of the squad.

 

A deal for Brighton’s Baleba had been on the table as another big-money addition, but United have now conceded defeat in their chase for the Cameroonian this summer. Instead, Amorim is turning his attention to a player he knows well from his time in Portugal.

 

Hjumland — described by journalist Zach Lowy as an “absolute monster” — was a key figure under Amorim at Sporting, making 65 appearances, winning two league titles, a Taca de Portugal, and eventually becoming club captain. With the Baleba deal postponed until at least next summer, United are now preparing a £50m offer for the 26-year-old midfielder to strengthen their options before the window closes in two weeks.

 

Although Hjumland’s contract includes a £68m release clause, Sporting are believed to be open to accepting around £50m with performance-based add-ons.

 

United are also keeping tabs on Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton, though negotiations are expected to be difficult with limited time left in the transfer window. Still, Hjumland is thought to be open to a Premier League switch to reunite with Amorim, even without the lure of European football.