Manchester United Targets Hjulmand as Chelsea Eyes Doué

Manchester United is reportedly optimistic about securing a deal for Sporting CP midfielder Morten Hjulmand, a player well-regarded by manager Ruben Amorim. The 26-year-old Denmark international’s previous relationship with Amorim, who coached him at Sporting, could facilitate negotiations despite Hjulmand’s €80 million release clause. United believes this figure may be open to discussion, considering Amorim’s connections with his former club.

In addition to Hjulmand, Manchester United is exploring other midfield options, including Jobe Bellingham of Borussia Dortmund and Victor Froholdt from Porto. Their pursuit of strengthening the midfield continues as they prepare for the upcoming transfer window.

Chelsea is also making headlines as they pursue Guela Doué, a right back from Strasbourg. Reports indicate that Chelsea may face competition from Aston Villa and Brighton for the 23-year-old. The shared-ownership model between Chelsea and Strasbourg could play a significant role in Doué’s eventual destination. Chelsea is also monitoring Barcelona’s Ronald Araújo as they seek a long-term replacement for the injury-plagued Reece James.

In a notable development, Chelsea and AC Milan have both expressed interest in Zion Suzuki, a goalkeeper currently with Parma. According to Corriere dello Sport, both clubs have scouted the 23-year-old Japan international, who has made 44 appearances in Serie A since joining Parma in 2024. Additionally, Suzuki is actively learning English and Italian to enhance his adaptability.

Meanwhile, Manchester City is closely following Said El Mala, a promising winger from Cologne. The 19-year-old has made a stunning start to the Bundesliga season, scoring three goals in his first six matches. City’s interest in El Mala is reportedly strong, as they look to compete with Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund for his signature. El Mala is under contract until June 2030, which could complicate any potential transfer.

As for Manchester United’s captain, Bruno Fernandes, he possesses a €65 million release clause amid ongoing interest from the Saudi Pro League. While sources close to Fernandes indicate he is not considering a move to Saudi Arabia next summer, the possibility of a major European club attempting to acquire him remains. Fernandes, 31, is under contract with United until 2027, with an option for an additional year.

In other transfer news, several clubs are actively pursuing different players. Chelsea has indicated they will not allow midfielder Andrey Santos to leave in January, countering rumors of a move to Manchester United. Additionally, Barcelona’s Marc-André ter Stegen is expected to leave the club in January, with interest from Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur.

Al Hilal is in discussions to extend the contract of Sergej Milinković-Savić, whose current deal expires next summer. Meanwhile, AC Milan is looking to acquire José María Giménez from Atlético Madrid during the January transfer window.

As the transfer window approaches, clubs across Europe are gearing up for potential signings that could reshape their squads. The next few weeks are set to be crucial as teams look to finalize their rosters ahead of the second half of the season.