Ruben Amorim eyes Benfica defender Tomas Araujo to bolster defence - Paper Round
Published 28/11/2024 at 23:52 GMT
React to this story
Manchester United's strong links to Portuguese players continue as Ruben Amorim's side are now said to be interested in Benfica defender Tomas Araujo. Meanwhile, The Red Devils are also reportedly about to battle rivals Manchester City for Amorim's former player, Sporting midfielder Morten Hjulmand. Arsenal, however, may not be interested in doing any business in the upcoming transfer window.
Ranieri on Roma return, what he expects from players and fond memories of Joe Cole
Video credit: TNT Sports
Amorim looks to Benfica defender Araujo
Ruben Amorim is looking at his compatriot Tomas Araujo as one of his first signings as Manchester United boss, it has been claimed.
The Sun believes United chiefs are monitoring the Benfica defender and could make a move for the 22-year-old in January.
"Ruben Amorim is already working on bolstering his Manchester United defence," notes the outlet.
"The new United boss wants Benfica’s rising star Tomas Araujo, 22, and could push for a £50million deal for the central defender when the transfer window opens in January.
"Amorim has a meeting with Old Trafford decision makers on Friday and will discuss a move for Araujo.
"Araujo has been a pillar of the Portuguese giant's team this season, partnering with former Manchester City stopper Nicolas Otamendi in the backline.
"The Red Devils have been dealing with substantial injury issues at the back this season, and Amorim has instantly set his sights on his compatriot, who won his first international cap only last week.
"A product of the Benfica academy, Araujo was targeted by Crystal Palace and Paris Saint-Germain last summer.
"Still, Benfica's bosses rejected the moves, although some of Europe's top clubs are closely monitoring the situation."
Manchester clubs chase Hjulmand
Manchester United could challenge rivals Manchester City for the signing of Sporting midfielder Morten Hjulmand, according to the Express.
The outlet, carrying a report by GiveMeSport, states Amorim’s side could make a move for the Denmark international in January.
The midfielder is said to have a release clause of ÂŁ67 million.
"Manchester United could fast-track a planned pursuit of Sporting midfielder Morten Hjulmand to the January transfer window, according to reports," reads the article.
"Ruben Amorim is believed to be targeting a reunion with his former midfield general but faces daunting competition from Manchester City.
"According to GiveMeSport, United could attempt to seal a deal for Hjulmand in January as City's desire for midfield reinforcements this winter grows.
"The Citizens' interest reportedly could kick United into action and advance the club's plans to recruit the Dane next summer.
- Hojlund at the double as Man Utd fight back to give Amorim first win
- Chelsea remain perfect as Nkunku & Mudryk down Heidenheim
"Hjulmand has a release clause worth ÂŁ67million, which will likely have to be triggered to lure him away from the Jose Alvalade Stadium midway through the campaign.
"His suitors can enter talks over personal terms if they match that valuation, though, and he could be interested in working with Amorim again at Old Trafford.
"The report adds that United initially planned to pursue Hjulmand next summer, having been monitoring him for over a year.
"United and City scouts were said to be in attendance at Sporting's 5-1 defeat to Arsenal earlier this week, potentially eyeing Hjulmand just as much as poster boy Viktor Gyokeres.
"There is a sense that Amorim's presence in Manchester can convince the Sporting star to join him and his Danish compatriots, Christian Eriksen and Rasmus Hojlund."
No January business for Arsenal
Arsenal may be nine points adrift of leaders Liverpool as they chase a first Premier League title since 2003/04, but Metro claims Mikel Arteta’s side will not be active in the January transfer window.
The Gunners have been linked with a number of forwards, but they may stick with what they have unless injuries affect their squad depth.
"Arsenal fans hoping Mikel Arteta will add to his squad in the January transfer window are likely to be frustrated," states the article, which cites ESPN as their source.
"Arsenal have been linked with a move for Sporting’s Viktor Gyokeres, his international team-mate Alexander Isak and RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko who opted to remain at the Bundesliga club last summer and sign a new deal, rather than jump at the chance to join a Premier League giant.
"According to ESPN, however, Arsenal are intending to keep their powder dry in January and continue to place faith in the likes of Kai Havertz, Gabriel Jesus and Leandro Trossard.
"A quiet winter window is anticipated, unless injuries become an issue again between now and the end of the year."
Stream the Premier League, UEFA Champions League and more on TNT Sports and discovery+
Related Topics
Advertisement
Advertisement