Morten Hjurmand of Sporting Lisbon vs Arsenal (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)
Manchester United are interested in Sporting Lisbon midfielder and Arsenal transfer target Morten Hjurmand and are expected to make a move this summer.
Ousmane Diomande and Ivan Fresneda were also on the table when the teams met in the Champions League quarter-finals, but I recently learned that the Gunners had asked Sporting about Yurmand.
Following new discussions with industry players, my understanding is that Arsenal remain interested in Yurmand, but Man United are also monitoring the situation closely.
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It is widely known that the Red Devils are busy adding new midfield reinforcements this summer, with two new faces likely to arrive at Old Trafford.
Yurmand is not necessarily at the top of that target list, but he is a player the club have been considering and could be available for €60 million.
Explaining the transfer situation of Morten Yurmand
Numerous sources have confirmed that a number of top clubs are interested in Yurmand, with Sporting reportedly willing to make a deal this summer with a release clause of less than 80 million euros.
A source said: “Arsenal have been in contact recently and Man United are also continuing to seek information.”
| Morten Yurmand | Total score: 16/25 |
| Transfer fee | ** |
| performance | **** |
| performance | *** |
| career phase | ** |
| The need for squads | ***** |
The Transfer Fit rating system is explained here.
“Sporting have sent a signal to the club. He has a release clause of 80 million euros, but he could be moved if we start negotiations for around 60 million euros.”
“This is their model and has been for a long time. They know this is an opportunity that will greatly benefit the player and he will also be keen to step up to a higher level.”
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But it’s worth noting that one or two other sources were keen to downplay the idea that signing with Sporting, a club known for being tough negotiators, would be a straightforward deal, as was the case with their eventual reluctance to sell Victor Gokeres to Arsenal last summer.
What could be happening here is that Sporting want to invite a bidding war for Yurmand, in which case his transfer fee could end up being well over €60 million and closer to his €80 million release fee.
Which clubs are keeping an eye on Morten Hjurmand?
As of now, the main names to look out for to sign Yurmand seem to be Arsenal or United, but there are other names as well.
Manchester City would be interesting. What United end up doing could have a big impact on their plans.
Both clubs really want Elliott Anderson, and although City are favorites to win, there has long been a sense that MUFC will continue to pursue his signature.
If they are successful, City could make a move for Yurmand as a replacement, but it is still early days and both clubs will likely consider other targets as well.
I also understand that Tottenham, Atletico Madrid and Juventus are likely to enter into negotiations at some point this summer.
