A central midfielder would still boost United, though. Ruben Amorim opted to start with Bruno Fernandes and Casemiro in Sunday’s defeat to Arsenal, swapping the latter with Manuel Ugarte in the second half and leaving Kobbie Mainoo on the bench.

Hjulmand instead of Carlos Baleba?Initially interested in Brighton’s Carlos Baleba, Manchester United are now considering Morten Hjulmand as an option to bolster their midfield

Brighton are determined to keep hold of the 21-year-old - who they value at over £100million. Consequently, The Manchester Evening News reported on Friday that United are content to wait until next year to pursue a deal for Baleba if they have to.