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Manchester United's hopes of signing Morten Hjulmand have been dashed, according to reports from Portugal.

The Red Devils had reportedly turned their attention to Hjulmand after deciding not to pursue a deal for Carlos Baleba due to Brighton & Hove Albion's hefty £100million price tag.

Hjulmand, who previously worked with Ruben Amorim at Sporting Clube de Portugal, was seen as an alternative option.

Earlier reports from Italy suggested that United had tabled a £34m bid for the player. However, Portuguese newspaper Correio da Manha has now claimed that Sporting blocked United's move.

Sporting president Frederico Varandas is reportedly adamant about keeping Hjulmand at the club, where he is considered a key player and leader in Rui Borges' squad.

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Varandas is even said to be planning a new contract for Hjulmand, complete with a pay rise. The report also suggests that Amorim has 'given up' on reuniting with his former player, leaving United to potentially explore other options.

Hjulmand made the switch to Sporting from Lecce for £15.8m in August 2023 and quickly made his mark in Lisbon. The ex-Admira Wacker midfielder played a crucial role in helping Amorim's side clinch the Primeira Liga title in his debut season, before repeating the feat in the following campaign.

The skipper has attracted attention from numerous European clubs, including Juventus and Manchester City.

However, it appears he will stay in Lisbon for the time being, with three years remaining on his current contract.