Man Utd 'offer' Facundo Pellistri in swap deal for £69m midfielder Christian Eriksen loves

Manchester United have reportedly 'offered' Facundo Pellistri in a direct swap deal for Sporting Lisbon midfielder Morten Hjulmand.

United have sent scouts to the Estádio José Alvalade on multiple occasions this season as they build a profile on the 24-year-old. Recruitment experts have seen him in domestic action and also playing Europa League football in order to get an idea of his continental credentials.

Erik ten Hag is keen to strengthen in central midfield, whether it be this month or in the summer, with concerns regarding Casemiro's longevity and Sofyan Amrabat's acclimatisation to the Premier League - the Moroccan is currently on loan and United have an option to buy him but no obligation.

The Sun reports that Ten Hag has identified Hjulmand as a target and adds that United have already offered a straight swap that would see Pellistri head to Lisbon. But they add that Sporting have rejected the offer outright and will not sell their midfielder unless his £69million release clause is met.

Hjulmand is primarily a defensive midfielder and his tally of just two goals in 193 senior appearances paints a picture of his responsibilities on the pitch. The Danish international has played 14 of Sporting's 16 league games, playing a vital role as they currently sit top of the table ahead of rivals Benfica.

Hjulmand spoke earlier this year of his love for Arsenal and adoration for their captain in the early 2000's, Patrick Vieira. But there is hope at United that a strong Danish connection could lure him to Old Trafford.

The 24-year-old is is much admired by Christian Eriksen and has worked tightly with the experienced midfielder during international spells. United also spent £72m to bring Rasmus Hojlund across from Atalanta last summer and have previous links with Denmark that include iconic goalkeeper Peter Schmeichel.

Reports of a willingness to offer Pellistri suggests United would be open to losing the Uruguayan this month. There has been loan interest with reports stating that PSV Eindhoven have made an approach.

Pellistri has only started three matches across all competitions and racked up just 375 minutes of football. The return to fitness of Amad Diallo could see minutes dwindle further and the Ivorian was preferred off the bench during the 2-1 defeat at Nottingham Forest, while Alejandro Garnacho and Marcus Rashford have both been played on the right as well.