Manchester United skipper Bruno Fernandes has publicly given his approval for the club to pursue Sporting Clube de Portugal's standout midfielder, Morten Hjulmand. The Danish international has been consistently linked with a switch to Old Trafford, with speculation intensifying ahead of the 2026 transfer windows.
Fernandes' Verdict on Key Transfer Target
Speaking to Portuguese broadcaster Canal 11, Fernandes was asked to name players from Liga Portugal who could succeed in the Premier League. He highlighted Hjulmand's credentials in glowing terms. The United captain described the 25-year-old as a "complete player" who possesses the intelligence and aggression required to thrive in English football.
"Obviously, Morten Hjulmand is a complete player at the moment," Fernandes stated. "He's a player who adds to the team. He's intelligent, aggressive, and in the Premier League you need that." When pressed on whether he would welcome his potential new teammate at Carrington, Fernandes offered a clear endorsement, though with a note of caution about the league's unique demands.
Midfield Reinforcements on United's Radar
The pursuit of Hjulmand is not new. United showed strong interest in the Sporting midfielder during the summer 2025 transfer window as they sought to bolster their engine room. While the club ultimately chose not to prioritise a midfield signing at that time, plans are believed to be in motion for future windows.
Other names like Carlos Baleba, Adam Wharton, and Elliot Anderson have also been mentioned, but Hjulmand remains a prominent figure in the rumour mill. His successful partnership with manager Ruben Amorim in Lisbon adds an intriguing subplot, given Amorim's own long-standing links with the Manchester United job.
Any move, however, could face significant competition. Reports from Portugal suggest Manchester City might also consider entering the race for Hjulmand's signature, setting up a potential transfer battle between the rivals.
Fernandes' Future and United's Plans
Amidst discussing transfer targets, Fernandes' comments about his own situation at Manchester United have sparked further debate. The Portuguese playmaker suggested the club lacked the conviction to move him on last summer and revealed he plans to reassess his future after the 2026 World Cup.
Despite this, it is understood United have no intention of allowing their captain to depart before the summer 2026 window closes. The club's strategy involves significant investment in the midfield area, with Hjulmand appearing to be a key candidate who has now received a powerful vote of confidence from the current squad leader.
Fernandes also praised another Liga Portugal talent, Benfica's Fredrik Aursnes, highlighting his intelligence and dynamism as traits that would translate well to the Premier League, regardless of his physical stature.
