 "Manchester United failed to improve under Ruben Amorim last season. Image: Reuters")
Manchester United are looking to sign a new midfielder this summer, with two main targets being considered. According to the Independent, United’s new ownership group, led by Sir Jim Ratcliffe, is ready to invest in either Morten Hjulmand or Joao Palhinha to strengthen their squad.
Both these players reportedly have the approval of head coach Ruben Amorim, who has already bought a few players this summer, but the midfield still remains a concern. Reports suggest that Kobbie Mainoo, who impressed last season, may leave Old Trafford and go to another club this summer.
Why are United concerned about the midfield?
If Mainoo does leave, United will need someone to play in midfield alongside captain Bruno Fernandes. This has put Morten Hjulmand and Joao Palhinha in the spotlight. They are reportedly being considered for the job, but a final decision is still awaited.
Danish midfielder Hjulmand, who scored against England at Euro 2024, currently plays for Sporting CP and has three years left on his contract. Amorim knows him well from his time as coach of Sporting and would like to bring him to Manchester United.
The second option is Joao Palhinha, who moved from Fulham to Bayern Munich for £47.4 million last year. He helped Bayern win the Bundesliga but had some injury troubles. United still believe he could be a good fit in Amorim’s team and would like to bring him to the Premier League.
Meanwhile, United are also making room in the squad by letting players go. Marcus Rashford has joined Barcelona on loan, while Alejandro Garnacho and Jadon Sancho could both be sold this summer. They have bought forwards Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo, and Paraguayan left-back Diego Leon has also joined the squad.
The team is currently in the United States for pre-season camp. They beat West Ham 2-1 on Sunday and are set to play Bournemouth and Everton next.
United endured one of their worst seasons in recent memory, finishing 15th in the 2024-25 Premier League table with just 42 points. The Red Devils managed only 11 wins from 38 games, suffering a staggering 18 losses. The club also missed out on European football.