Fabrizio Romano has revealed what he has heard about the potential of a swap deal between Sporting Lisbon and Manchester United.
A couple of days ago, The Sun reported that Manchester United had seen a swap deal with Facundo Pellistri heading to Portugal and midfielder Morten Hjulmand heading to Old Trafford rejected by Sporting Lisbon.
It is becoming clear that Erik ten Hag and United will have to begin assessing midfield options in the upcoming transfer window as Casemiro’s future at the club is uncertain following a poor season.
Kobbie Mainoo has exploded onto the scene but a more experienced partner for the 18-year-old teenager may well be needed this summer.
Hjulmand and Pellistri swap
Hjulmand was reportedly viewed as an ideal target as his age of 24 makes him the perfect blend of youth and experience which could help Mainoo, and the midfield as a whole, progress.
However, speaking on his latest YouTube video, Fabrizio Romano has poured cold water on this rumour and has explained the situation.
“The rumours around this deal are not true from what I am told,” Romano said. “There are no negotiations ongoing between the two clubs for a swap deal.
“For Pellistri, there is interest from FC Twente, PSV Eindhoven and LA Galaxy, amongst other clubs but United will decide his future in the next couple of days.”
Hjulmand could be a brilliant addition
Despite Romano claiming that there have been no active negotiations for the Danish star, the 24-year-old could well be a smart addition if a defensive midfielder is being sought after for the Red Devils in the summer.
However, HITC Football reported earlier in the week that Liverpool had sent scouts to watch not only Hjulmand but also Pedro Goncalves from Sporting Lisbon.
Amadou Onana has previously been linked with the Red Devils and due to the Toffees’ financial situation, a move for the Belgian could well be a realistic proposition in the summer and his physicality would certainly help Mainoo in the middle of the park.
A January move for a midfielder on a permanent deal looks unlikely so a summer move could be more realistic.
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