Morten Hjulmand to Man United transfer update amid £69m claim and swap deal offer

Manchester United might have to pay more than they initially expected for former Ruben Amorim player Morten Hjulmand.

Last week, reports emerged as United were linked with a move for the Denmark midfielder from Sporting Clube de Portugal as they looked to strengthen their options in central midfield. TEAMtalk reported that the 26-year-old was on United's radar and later suggested that Manchester City could provide strong competition for his signature.

However, they might also have to contend with interest from Juventus, who have been linked with the midfielder according to reports in the Italian press.

A new report from Portuguese newspaper A Bola claims that Sporting president Frederico Varandas will only allow Hjulmand to leave if his €80million (£69m) release clause is triggered - or if a very similar offer is made.

It's also noted that add-ons might be considered; otherwise, a deal is "unlikely" to go through.

The Sporting captain is a key figure for the club as they strive to win the Liga Portugal title for a third consecutive campaign. Hjulmand has been described as Sporting head coach Rui Borges's right-hand man in both matches and training, thanks to his leadership qualities.

The report also states that he feels "very comfortable" in Portugal and he has "no intention" of leaving - at least for one more season. With that said, Gazzetta dello Sport has claimed that Juventus are "considering" offering Douglas Luiz in a swap deal, along with an additional fee.

However, Luiz's salary is seen as a stumbling block, with the Brazilian reportedly earning £4.3million per year.

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