What separates Morten Hjulmand from Man Utd, according to Fabrizio Romano update

 Manchester United are hoping to bring in another midfielder before the window closes, but Ineos may need to look beyond their top targets.

Back in pre-season, Ruben Amorim noticed what he called a “lack of pace” in midfield during United’s match against Leeds.

It was taken as a clear message by Ineos that another signing was needed, and the recruitment team moved quickly to address it.

Talks began over Carlos Baleba, but Brighton seem determined to keep hold of the £100m-rated midfielder until next summer.

Morten Hjulmand – who was one of the standout players of Amorim’s time at Sporting CP – could be one of those options under consideration.

Fabrizio Romano shares latest on Morten Hjulmand links to Man United

Rumours of Hjulmand following Amorim to Old Trafford have been around since the manager’s appointment in November.

The Portuguese coach had made the Dane captain during their time together at Sporting, and has always been a strong admirer of the midfielder’s qualities.

But, according to Fabrizio Romano, his potential move to the Red Devils has a long way to go.

“Obviously, Ruben Amorim knows the player so well, and he is a player always appreciated by Amorim,” the transfer expert said.

“But there are two points. First point: Sporting don’t want to sell other top players after losing Viktor Gyokeres this summer, so it will be a tough and difficult deal to do.

“Second point: Manchester United, at the moment, have not started concrete or real talks for Morten Hjulmand.

“They are informed about the situation because he is a player who has always been on their list, but at the moment they have not advanced in club-to-club talks.”

Morten Hjulmand’s potential role at Man United

Ineos are searching for a suitable midfield partner for Bruno Fernandes, who is expected to adopt a deeper role this season.

Amorim had previously chosen Hjulmand over Manuel Ugarte while in Portugal, suggesting he already sees the Dane as an upgrade on his current options.

United could use a younger version of Casemiro to shield their defence, and Hjulmand looks like a strong fit for that role.

The Danish midfielder is expected to cost around £35m. But given his age and experience, this summer might be the perfect time for him to link up with Amorim again in Manchester.

Already part of Sporting’s leadership group, Hjulmand would bring another experienced voice into what Amorim is building at United.