Manchester United summer transfer plans could hinge on the future of manager Rúben Amorim, with reports suggesting that the club’s interest in Sporting Lisbon midfielder Morten Hjulmand depends on whether Amorim remains in charge.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Hjulmand, 25, has been one of Sporting’s standout performers under Amorim. The Danish midfielder joined the Portuguese club in 2023 from Lecce and quickly became a key figure in Amorim’s system, praised for his defensive discipline and tactical awareness.

According to several English and Portuguese media outlets, Amorim admires Hjulmand’s intelligence on the ball and leadership in midfield. The two built a strong working relationship in Lisbon, where Amorim’s system allowed Hjulmand to flourish as a deep-lying playmaker.

Manchester United reportedly made contact with Sporting earlier this year and were prepared to offer around £34 million for Hjulmand. Sporting, however, are said to value the player much higher, pointing to his €80 million (about £68 million) release clause.

Sources close to the club told local media that United’s recruitment team has placed Hjulmand on a shortlist of midfield targets. But any move is expected to depend heavily on Amorim’s position. If the Portuguese coach leaves Old Trafford before the summer transfer window, the club may abandon its pursuit of Hjulmand altogether.

Amorim joined United late last year after a successful tenure at Sporting, where he won the Portuguese league and developed several young stars. His future at Old Trafford remains uncertain following mixed results in his first full season in charge. United are reportedly reviewing their coaching situation ahead of the 2025–26 campaign.

Hjulmand has spoken publicly about his respect for Amorim’s methods, calling him one of the best coaches he has worked with.

“Rúben was one of the reasons I came to Sporting,” Hjulmand said in an interview last year. “The way he manages the team, both on and off the pitch, is different from anything I’ve seen before.”

Amorim has also been open about his admiration for Hjulmand, describing him as “one of the most complete players” in his position. That connection has fueled speculation of a possible reunion at Old Trafford.

United’s midfield has been an area of concern in recent seasons, with Casemiro’s form declining and Sofyan Amrabat expected to leave when his loan ends. The club’s sporting department is seeking younger, high-energy players capable of adapting to Amorim’s high-pressing tactics.

However, if Amorim departs, United could shift their transfer focus entirely. A change in management would likely bring a new tactical approach and different player priorities.

Sporting, for their part, are under no pressure to sell. The Lisbon club see Hjulmand as a central figure in their squad and are expected to demand his full release clause if approached by any club this summer.

For now, United’s interest remains conditional. The club’s hierarchy is said to be waiting for clarity on Amorim’s future before making any formal bid.

The situation highlights how closely managerial stability and transfer planning are linked at top clubs. Until Manchester United confirm their coach for next season, Morten Hjulmand’s potential move to Old Trafford appears to be on hold.