Andreas Granqvist potentially moving to Manchester United is a growing story in the Swedish media.
Interest from the Premier League club was revealed earlier today by FotbollDirekt who reported ‘several secure sources’ had informed them the 33 year old is an option for Jose Mourinho’s side in the January transfer window.
It was suggested a deal could be done along the lines of the one which saw Henrik Larsson join the English club on loan in 2007.
FotbollDirekt also had quotes from the defender, who explained: “I know that there is a lot of interest for me. United is incredibly flattering but I have not heard anything concrete yet.”
Aftonbladet, a Swedish newspaper, have contacted Helsingborg to ask for their take on the claims, and the club have been very open.
Asked if he was surprised, Azelius said: “No, I am not. Several of the younger players in Manchester United’s defence may be better footballers than Andreas, but they lack his managerial skills, routine and attitude.”
Aftonbladet suggest a transfer may be a way for Helsingborg to make some money, and the club’s chief seems to sway more towards a permanent deal than a loan: “I would prefer Andreas Granqvist to stay for a long time and make sure that HIF becomes an established Swedish club, both in his role as a player and then as sports director. At the same time, I understand the interest that exists around him in view of what he represents.
“To loan him does not feel in the context of the most likely, but I’m not prepared to close any doors at all. At the moment, it’s speculation.”
Granqvist has worked well with Victor Lindelof for the Swedish national team, which could be behind Manchester United’s thinking.
