Manchester United could land a double blow on Sporting as the Red Devils look to reinforce their backline. United were already considering Goncalo Inacio as a potential replacement at the back. However, United are also ready to plot a move for Morten Hjulmand.
The Manchester Reds ended their worst ever Premier League campaign with an 8th place finish. Moreover, United only managed to collect 60 points conceding a mammoth 58 goals in the league. Additionally, United’s roster suffered a plethora of injuries with more than 65 separate cases of unavailability.
Erik Ten Hag had no natural center backs in the final few games of the season. The Dutchman had to employ midfielders Casemiro and Sofyan Amrabat as alternatives. After being on the bad end of things the entire season, the Red Devils managed to win the FA Cup against Manchester City. Henceforth, also qualifying for next season’s Europa League in the process.
Manchester United looking to reform at the back!
The Red Devils are planning to make big changes at the back after having a defensively disastrous season. Apart from injuries, the Red Devils just don’t have enough quality squad depth at the back.
Raphael Varane has departed Old Trafford as a free agent. Although a good player, Lisandro Martinez has proven to be injury prone. Moreover, Lindelof is just not good enough and Maguire remains inconsistent with his performances. Additionally, Willly Kambwala is still young and lacks experience.
Luke Shaw can be an alternative but the Englishman’s availability of late has been questionable with fitness issues. Also, Casemiro won’t be an option anymore as the Brazilian has interest from Saudi. Moreover, Sofyan Amrabat’s loan deal has expired and United won’t be signing him.
It is highly unlikely that fullbacks Diogo Dalot and Aaron Wan-Bissaka would be considered for the positions. Additionally, Tyrell Malacia was unavailable throughout the past season. Accordingly, Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS have decided to reform Manchester United at the back and strengthen the defensive structure.
The Red Devils are also considering Jarrad Branthwaite, Jean Clair-Todibo, Tosin Adarabioyo, Ronald Araujo, Ousmane Diomande, and now Goncalo Inacio and Morten Hjulmand to restructure their backline. However, Chelsea edged out Manchester United for Adarabioyo and have secured the move for the Fulham defender.
Inacio and Hjulmand: The walls of Sporting
Goncalo Inacio and Morten Hjulmand were key players to Sporting’s league title triumph under Ruben Amorim this season.
Inacio helps his team to build attacks from the back with his distribution. The Portuguese is good on the ball and his long stride cover large distances quickly. The 22-year old has displayed his ability of timing his tackles and interceptions. Despite his young age, Inacio’s international experience with Portugal will come in handy for the Red Devils. Inacio made 44 appearances for Sporting this season.
Hjulmand boasts an impressive pass accuracy and ball composure as a holding midfielder. Moreover, the 24-year old threatens defenses while playing deep making him a valuable addition. Hjulmand made 40 appearances for Sporting scoring 3 and providing 2 goals. Additionally, the Dane kept 14 clean sheets for Sporting this campaign.
Manchester United eye a double deal worth £119 million for Sporting!
Manchester United are currently the frontrunners to sign Inacio who is currently valued at £51 million by Sporting. However, if Red Devils are looking to lure away Hjulmand, United may have to splash another £68 million for the youngster, bringing the total to £119 million.
While both players are quite talented and could shine at Old Trafford, the question is will INEOS and United be ready to burn holes in their pockets for the Sporting duo.
Nevertheless, competition from other clubs could make things worse for the Red Devils. United will be keen to lure away the duo as economically as possible.
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