Manchester United Interested in Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg and Other Midfield Options
Manchester United has reportedly approached Tottenham regarding midfielder Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg. The Danish international is in the final two years of his contract with Spurs and could be allowed to leave if a suitable offer is made. Hojbjerg was close to joining Atletico Madrid earlier in the transfer window but the move did not materialize. So far this season, Hojbjerg has only made two substitute appearances for Tottenham. It is worth noting that Erik ten Hag, the current Manchester United manager, has worked with Hojbjerg in the past when he managed him at Bayern Munich’s reserve team in 2013. Ten Hag also tried to sign him when he was at Ajax before Hojbjerg joined Tottenham in 2020.
Aside from Hojbjerg, Manchester United is also considering other midfield options. These include Fiorentina’s Sofyan Amrabat and Bayern Munich’s Ryan Gravenberch. Ten Hag has previously coached both players, managing Amrabat at Utrecht and Gravenberch at Ajax. While a deal for Amrabat cannot be ruled out, most of the speculation regarding his potential move to Manchester United is coming from Italy. Amrabat is currently training separately from the first-team squad as he determines his future.
There is still a possibility that Manchester United will not make any major outfield signings during the remaining days of the transfer window.
Analysis: Hojbjerg’s Fit in Ten Hag’s Plans
Sky Sports’ Laura Hunter provides some analysis on the potential signing of Hojbjerg by Manchester United. She suggests that while the move may seem surprising, it aligns with Ten Hag’s preference to work with familiar players. Manchester United is in need of another central midfielder, but with a tight budget, the club may not be able to make significant financial investments. Hojbjerg may fit within the club’s financial structure, but he may not fully meet Ten Hag’s desire for a young and dynamic ball player. Hunter suggests that if Ten Hag is looking for a midfielder who excels in defensive duties while also contributing to quick counter-attacks, it may be better for him to explore other options.
Stay Updated with Sky Sports’ Transfer Centre
For the latest transfer news, rumors, and analysis, follow Sky Sports’ Transfer Centre blog on their digital platforms. With the transfer window closing on September 1 in England and midnight in Scotland, there may still be some movement in the final days. Keep track of all the developments with Sky Sports News.