Manchester United (Manchester United) is set to make a second attempt to sign Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg (28, Tottenham Hotspur).
“Manchester United are ready to take on Juventus and Atletico Madrid in the winter transfer window in a bid to sign Hojbjerg,” Italian outlet Corriere dello Sport reported on Monday.
Hojbjerg was once considered a key midfielder for Tottenham. Since joining Spurs from Southampton in 2020, he has established himself in the team, scoring 10 goals and providing 16 assists in 156 games.
Last season was no different. He made 44 appearances across all competitions. He scored five goals and provided seven assists in those games, making him one of the few Tottenham players to do his job.
This season has been a different story. Tottenham manager Enze Postecoglou hasn’t used Hojbjerg as a starter. Instead, Pape Sarr and Yves Bissouma have been given the nod.
He hasn’t gotten much playing time. Hojbjerg started just one game in the league this season. Even that was narrowly missed due to Bissouma’s sending-off.
Naturally, the transfer rumors started. Juventus have been the most aggressive in their pursuit of Hojbjerg. Juventus president Cristiano Giuntoli confirmed that he was present at the 11th round of the league between Tottenham and Chelsea to check on the player.
The issue was his transfer fee. According to the report, Juventus offered a short-term loan with an option for a full transfer for €25 million, while Tottenham insisted on an outright sale for €40 million.
As negotiations stalled, a competitor emerged. “Unsatisfied with their midfield reinforcements this summer, United are once again targeting Hojbjerg,” according to Corriere dello Sport.
This is not the first time United have been interested in Hojbjerg. The Red Devils attempted to make a surprise signing this summer, but the move 스포츠토토 was scuppered by the arrival of Sofiane Amrabat on loan.
It didn’t work out. Neither Amrabat nor Mason Mount, who joined the club this summer, have been able to make an impact. Speculation is rife that United will be looking for a new midfielder again.