Morten Hjulmand, a midfielder for Sporting Lisbon and a reported target for Manchester United, has downplayed rumors that he is leaving the team, despite the fact that Manchester United is still quite fond of him.

Before the summer transfer window opens, Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS may try to bolster their midfield.

The need for this will probably grow more pressing if Casemiro departs. It’s believed that INEOS is eager to remove the Brazilian’s salary from United’s records.

 There’s a good probability the five-time Champions League winner will leave Old Trafford at the end of the current season, as he has been linked to a move to the Saudi Pro League.

In the event that he departs, United will most likely need to find a replacement to make sure the squad is not shorthanded in a critical situation. This is the role of Hjulmand.

Similar to Casemiro, Hjulmand is a defensively inclined midfield player by nature. Despite this, he continues to provide offensive support, totaling three goals and two assists in 24 Liga NOS games.

It was reported in January of this year that United had formally initiated negotiations with Sporting Lisbon regarding a possible transfer for the Denmark international.

Prior to that, during the January transfer window, it is thought that the Red Devils offered Sporting a trade in which Hjulmand would have arrived at Old Trafford and Facundo Pellistri would have gone the other way. It goes without saying that Ruben Amorim’s side rejected this offer.

There are other Premier League teams vying for the player besides United. It has also been reported that Tottenham Hotspur is interested in him.

In an interview with the Portuguese newspaper Betano (via Metro), he discussed his future and the persistent rumors that he would be joining United or another team.

“Estadio Jose Alvalade is a very special place to play,” the 24-year-old remarked. I feel comfortable here. 

 “Because Sporting has participated in the Champions League and Europa League numerous times, I was aware of the club’s significance not only in Portugal but throughout Europe.”

“But I didn’t realize how important the club was in Portugal until after watching the first game and after coming here.”  

He said, “It was the right step and I’m very happy to be here,” in response to a question on whether he made the right choice in leaving Serie A team Lecce to join Sporting.  

Hjulmand, who has five caps for Denmark, will probably play with Christian Eriksen and Rasmus Hojlund of United on the country’s squad for the summer’s Euro 2024 competition.

His remarks suggest that United could need to explore elsewhere for the ideal Casemiro replacement.