Manchester United have reportedly utilised Facundo Pellistri as part of a swap deal for Sporting Lisbon’s Morten Hjulmand, as per the Metro.
Erik ten Hag and United supporters are preparing for a new era under INEOS’ part-ownership, with Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s 25 per cent stake currently in the process of being ratified by the Premier League.
Therefore, Ratcliffe has his hands tied when it comes to aiding Ten Hag on the transfer market this January and, assuming the Dutchman is still in the dugout by then, he’ll need to wait until the summer window.
Targets are, however, already being identified at Old Trafford as the club looks for long-term acquisitions that will strengthen the 20-time champions and make them able to compete with the likes of Manchester City and Liverpool.
Pellistri offered to Sporting
Alas, the Reds have been linked with stalwart midfielder Hjulmand, who has a release clause of £69 million embedded into his contract. United have tried to bypass the eye-watering price tag by offering youngster Pellistri in an exchange deal, though Sporting are uninterested in any such deal.
Pellistri, 22, is expected to depart M16 on loan this month and Eredivisie leaders PSV Eindhoven are currently leading the race for his signature. It remains to be seen if he will complete a permanent exit at the end of the campaign.
