Manchester United in Talks for Hojbjerg Transfer
Manchester United has reportedly made initial contact with Tottenham midfielder Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg regarding a potential transfer. Hojbjerg, who has entered the final two years of his contract, could be allowed to leave if a suitable offer is made.
The Danish international was previously close to joining Atletico Madrid earlier in the transfer window. Despite his limited playing time at Tottenham this season, with just two substitute appearances, he has worked with manager Erik ten Hag before during their time at Bayern Munich’s reserve team in 2013.
Ten Hag also attempted to sign Hojbjerg at Ajax before the midfielder made his move from Southampton to Tottenham in 2020. In addition to Hojbjerg, Manchester United is considering alternatives such as Fiorentina’s Sofyan Amrabat and Bayern Munich’s Ryan Gravenberch. Ten Hag has previously managed both players at Utrecht and Ajax, respectively.
While a deal for Amrabat cannot be ruled out, most of the speculation surrounding his potential move originates from Italy, where he is currently training away from the first-team squad. It remains uncertain whether there will be any major outfield signings at Old Trafford before the end of the summer transfer window.
Analysis: Hojbjerg’s Suitability for Ten Hag’s Plans
Commenting on the potential transfer, Sky Sports’ Laura Hunter suggests that while Hojbjerg’s inclusion in Manchester United’s midfield may come as a surprise, it aligns with Ten Hag’s preference for working with familiar players. Manchester United is in need of an additional central midfielder, but financial constraints may limit the club’s options, considering the significant expenditure on previous signings this summer.
According to Hunter, Hojbjerg’s defensive qualities and work rate are evident, but his abilities in possession are lacking compared to other potential options. If Ten Hag seeks a dynamic ball-playing midfielder who can contribute defensively and provide quick counter-attacks, creative solutions, and forward play, he may need to explore alternative options.
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