Facundo Pellistri swap deal REJECTED as Christian Eriksen’s close friend wants Man United transfer

Sporting Lisbon have rejected Manchester United’s swap deal involving Facundo Pellistri for midfielder Morten Hjulmand, according to reports.

Erik ten Hag had hoped that a swap deal involving Pellistri, 21, would be enough for Manchester United to convince the Portuguese club to part ways with the young Danish talent.

But, according to The Sun, the bid has been rejected as Sporting are waiting for the Premier League side to trigger Hjulmand’s £69 million release clause.  

Read More: “Disappointing” – Man United player’s personal trainer fuming with Erik ten Hag’s decision & recommends new club

Uruguayan international Pellistri – who has featured for Manchester United just nine times this season – has been linked with several moves this summer as he has struggled to find a settled place in Erik ten Hag’s squad.

The Red Devils have watched Hjulmand six times this season in both the Primeira Liga and Europa League and were impressed with the 24-year-old’s talents.

The defensive midfielder is said to be close friends with United’s own Christian Eriksen, who is understood to be a mentor to the youngster when the pair play together for Denmark alongside fellow countryman Rasmus Højlund.

The introduction of Hjulmand – whose contract expires in June 2028 – would be a welcome addition by Erik ten Hag, who is looking to bolster his midfield options after new signings Mason Mount and Sofyan Amrabat have struggled to find form since arriving last summer.

With Casemiro still out with a hamstring injury, the introduction of a youngster who has featured in all but one of Sporting Lisbon’s 24 games since joining the club, would provide the Red Devils with some welcome relief.