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Manchester United’s Midfield Focus Sharpens as Amorim Eyes Familiar Face

As the January 2026 transfer window looms, Manchester United’s recruitment drive under Ruben Amorim is taking shape, with several key midfielders under consideration. According to TEAMtalk’s Fraser Fletcher, United have drawn up a five-player shortlist, with one familiar name emerging as a standout target.

Amorim’s Connection with Hjulmand

Among the candidates, Morten Hjulmand of Sporting CP appears to be the priority. The Danish international, 26, is described as “absolutely loved” by Amorim, who coached him to success in Lisbon before making the switch to Old Trafford. Their shared history is more than anecdotal; it represents tactical synergy.

During their time together at Sporting, Hjulmand was instrumental in delivering domestic dominance, noted for his blend of resilience and technical accuracy. His ability to anchor the midfield and dictate tempo mirrors the qualities Amorim has sought to instil at United.

As TEAMtalk reports, United are hopeful of landing Hjulmand for around £50 million despite his £70 million release clause, with Sporting potentially open to negotiation due to their amicable relationship with their former coach. Should the deal materialise, Hjulmand would bring a calm authority and a proven understanding of Amorim’s system.

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Wider Midfield Options Under Review

However, Amorim’s ambitions extend beyond a single target. Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton remains high on the list, though his projected £70 million valuation presents a significant mid-season challenge. Brighton’s Carlos Baleba also features, but TEAMtalk notes that his “near-£100m valuation and long-term contract” make him “too difficult” to pursue in January.

Meanwhile, Jobe Bellingham has resurfaced as a potential project player, with United reportedly monitoring his situation at Borussia Dortmund, where first-team opportunities have been limited. Porto’s Victor Froholdt also figures in United’s scouting reports, though his move might hinge on further developments in Europe.

Such a broad search highlights Amorim’s clear intent to refresh United’s midfield depth with players capable of pressing intelligently and maintaining composure in transition.

Other Transfer Movements Across the Premier League

Elsewhere, TEAMtalk reports that Everton are exploring a possible return for Richarlison. The Brazilian forward, who joined Tottenham Hotspur in 2022 for £60m, could be part of Spurs’ planned revamp in attack. Club insiders believe there is “a growing possibility he will become available on the market in 2026”, which could allow the Toffees to revisit a familiar face.

Meanwhile, Chelsea may address their goalkeeping concerns with a short-term fix. Dean Jones told TEAMtalk: “It would not surprise me if Chelsea looked into getting Ter Stegen on loan for the second half of the season.” The move would bridge the gap until a long-term option such as Mike Maignan can be secured next summer.

With Ter Stegen’s future at Barcelona uncertain and his wages likely to be a deciding factor, this situation remains fluid.

Evolving Transfer Dynamics

These reports collectively underline how Premier League clubs are adjusting strategies ahead of a crucial mid-season window. For United, the story remains one of calculated progress under Amorim. His insistence on mental strength, tactical balance and adaptability appears to guide every decision — traits that may yet transform the side’s identity as they push to rejoin England’s elite.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

From a Manchester United supporter’s standpoint, this developing story feels encouraging. Ruben Amorim’s second season has shown glimpses of progress, yet consistency in midfield remains elusive. The links to Morten Hjulmand are exciting precisely because they make tactical sense. Fans remember how Amorim’s Sporting side controlled matches with disciplined possession and rapid recovery — something United have yet to fully replicate.

Hjulmand, described as “absolutely loved” by Amorim, could be the missing link between defence and attack. His presence might allow Bruno Fernandes and Kobbie Mainoo to operate higher up the pitch, offering better structure and balance.

United fans are also realistic about Financial Fair Play constraints. If Sporting agree to a compromise around £50m, this would represent a rare deal based on footballing fit rather than market glamour.

There is cautious optimism too about the broader shortlist. Wharton and Baleba suggest that Amorim and the recruitment team are planning not just for January but for the next three to five years. Supporters will appreciate that foresight, especially given how previous transfer windows under different regimes felt short-term and reactive.

Ultimately, whether or not Hjulmand joins, the fact that Amorim’s influence now defines United’s recruitment strategy shows progress. It marks a shift toward identity-driven signings — a foundation on which lasting success might finally be built.