Manchester United are considering a surprise swoop for Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg, reports the Telegraph.
The Red Devils are eager to sign a new midfielder before Friday’s transfer deadline at the behest of manager Erik ten Hag, who wants to bolster his options in midfield.
Tottenham are open to cutting Hojbjerg loose this summer and have accepted two offers for the midfielder, but a move is yet to materialise.
Spanish giants Atletico Madrid saw a £30 million proposal accepted by their Premier League counterparts, but they struggled to agree personal terms with the Danish midfielder.
Hojbjerg has also turned down the chance to pocket a mouth-watering £45m salary package in the Saudi Pro League as he intends to remain in Europe this summer.
The 28-year-old failed to make Ange Postecoglou’s squad for the 2-2 draw against Brentford on the opening weekend but managed substitute appearances in subsequent games against Man United and Bournemouth.
Tottenham are eager to trim the size of their bloated squad, so much so they will not stand in Hojbjerg’s way of securing a move to a direct rival.
Hojbjerg has been a key player at Spurs since he joined from Southampton three years ago, but Postecoglou’s arrival has spelt trouble for his playing time.
The Australian tactician has favoured a midfield pairing of Yves Bissouma and Pape Matar Sarr, with Oliver Skipp also ahead of Hojbjerg in the pecking order.
It is unclear if he will be open to joining Man United, who are in dire need of midfield reinforcements judging by their performances.
United have been heavily linked with a move for Sofyan Amrabat, but they have not lodged an official bid, leaving the player’s representatives frustrated at the lack of progress in their rumoured interest.
Man United need to raise funds through player sales to further their recruitment drive, but they are struggling to cut ties with some of their transfer-listed stars.
They are open to parting ways with Scott McTominay, who has been linked with a move to Bayern Munich, but their £45m asking price has forced prospective suitors to look elsewhere.
Meanwhile, Harry Maguire is set to remain at Old Trafford beyond this summer despite rumours that West Ham United have returned for his signature.
