Manchester United has reportedly maintained their interest in signing Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg during the upcoming January transfer window, according to Italian newspaper Corriere dello Sport (September 29, 2023, page 17). Juventus and Atletico Madrid are also keen on acquiring the Danish midfielder.
Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg, a player who played a pivotal role for Tottenham under various managers, has seen a change in his status since the arrival of Ange Postecoglou as the new head coach this summer. He is no longer a regular starter for Spurs, having played less than 80 minutes of Premier League football since the season’s start last month.
Reports during the summer suggested that Manchester United had shown interest in Hojbjerg when they were facing challenges in securing a deal for Sofyan Amrabat. Although United eventually secured Amrabat’s services, recent reports from Italy indicate that manager Erik ten Hag still holds a liking for the Tottenham midfielder.
Furthermore, Juventus has expressed strong interest in potentially signing Hojbjerg during the January transfer window. Atletico Madrid, managed by Diego Simeone, was in discussions to acquire Hojbjerg on the deadline day of the previous transfer window, although the deal ultimately fell through.
Tottenham is reportedly not inclined to loan out Hojbjerg but prefers to sell him outright, setting their asking price at £26 million.
Given that Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg is now 28 years old, this stage of his career calls for regular playing time. However, he is unlikely to receive such opportunities at Tottenham, where Yves Bissouma, Pape Matar Sarr, and the returning Rodrigo Bentancur are all ahead of him in the pecking order. A move in January seems to be the most suitable option for all parties involved, whether to Manchester United or another club.
It remains to be seen whether Manchester United will submit a bid to secure Hojbjerg’s services in the upcoming January transfer window.