Exclusive Transfer Updates: Mancunian Giants Eyeing Pierre-Emerick Hojbjerg, Marc Cucurella, and a Surprise Chelsea Defender!

Man Utd has initiated contact regarding a potential deal with Tottenham midfielder Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg. Additionally, they have also made an offer for a loan move involving Chelsea's Marc Cucurella. With Hojbjerg's contract nearing its final two years, Tottenham is open to his departure upon receiving a suitable offer.

The Danish midfielder was on the verge of signing with Atletico Madrid earlier this transfer period. Despite being 28 years old, he has only made two appearances as a substitute for Tottenham this season. Notably, he has previously worked under Erik ten Hag during their time together at Bayern Munich's reserve team in 2013.

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He also attempted to acquire his signature while he was at Ajax, before Hojbjerg made the move from Southampton to Tottenham in 2020.

In addition, Manchester United has made a proposal to Chelsea for the transfer of defender Cucurella, and ongoing discussions are taking place between the two clubs.

The talks centre around a loan deal for the 25-year-old Spanish left-back.

Ten Hag's side are in the market for a left-back given injuries to Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia.

Ten Hag did not disclose the extent of Shaw's muscle injury last week but mentioned that Shaw's return would be delayed compared to Mason Mount, who is projected to be out for a few weeks. Additional possibilities for left-back reinforcements consist of Sergio Reguilon from Tottenham, Marcos Alonso from Barcelona, and Leonardo Spinazzola from Roma.

What other midfield options are Man Utd looking at?

Ten Hag holds admiration for both individuals, having previously coached Amrabat during his time at Utrecht and Gravenberch during his tenure at Ajax.

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Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg has only featured as a substitute twice for Spurs in this season. Although a potential transfer for Amrabat cannot be dismissed, most of the rumors regarding his move originate from Italy. At present, Amrabat is training separately from the first-team squad as he sorts out his future.

There is still a chance there will not be any more major outfield incomings at Old Trafford this summer.

Analysis: Hojbjerg a strange pivot for Ten Hag

We' Laura Hunter:

At first glance, this may appear to be an unexpected turn of events in the ongoing Manchester United midfield storyline. However, it aligns with Erik ten Hag's preference for collaborating with familiar players.

Undoubtedly, Manchester United requires an additional central midfielder, as highlighted by Ten Hag. However, financial constraints limit their options. With three previous signings already amounting to nearly £200m this summer, there isn't much leeway left within the remaining budget.

Hojbjerg may be suitable for Man Utd's financial constraints, but he falls short of fulfilling Ten Hag's quest for a youthful and energetic midfielder.

Last summer, Ten Hag set his sights on Frenkie de Jong, who perfectly matched the desired criteria. However, his price tag surpassed that of most available alternatives.

Hojbjerg does provide defensive intensity and is highly competitive and industrious, but he falls short in terms of possession.

Since Ten Hag desires a midfielder who can fulfill defensive responsibilities while also initiating rapid counter-attacks during transitions, playing with agility and creating inventive solutions in the attacking regions - similar to De Jong's style - it would be more advisable for him to seek out alternatives for recruitment.

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