Manchester United have reportedly made an official enquiry for Jack Hinshelwood despite a major Premier League rival already having held talks with the Brighton & Hove Albion ace.
Jack of All Trades
Hinshelwood, 21, emerged as one of the most well-rounded assets at Brighton & Hove Albion boss Fabian Hurzeler’s disposal last season, lining up in a variety of positions under the German tactician.
However, it was when he was deployed as a No.10 towards the tail end of a campaign in which the Seagulls qualified for the Europa Conference League that the England under-21 international really began to thrive.
Three goals in three games, including Brighton’s fastest ever in Premier League history to open the scoring against Wolverhampton Wanderers, propelled the south coast club towards an eighth-placed finish.
Jack Hinshelwood Stats: 2025/26 Season
| Competition | Appearances | Goals | Assists | Yellow Cards | Red Cards |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Premier League | 27 | 4 | 4 | - | - |
| FA Cup | 2 | - | - | - | - |
| EFL Cup | 1 | - | - | - | - |
| Total | 30 | 4 | 4 | - | - |
Off the pitch, however, the youngster is also impressing at the Amex Stadium. In March, Hurzeler hailed the academy graduate as a “Brighton kid…[who] has the right values in his character. He always puts the team first. He always puts the club first.”
With the versatility to play across virtually any position in midfield and even at full-back, excellent technique balanced by a nose for goal, and a maturity which belies his years, it is easy to see why England’s elite – including Manchester United – are interested in the Worthing native.
Eyed by England’s Elite
The Sun reveals Arsenal are leading the race, having already held talks with Hinshelwood’s representatives over a switch to north London.
Fresh from their first Premier League title in 22 years, Mikel Arteta is keen to double down on last season’s success. The Spaniard believes the Brighton gem could be the “perfect addition to his squad.”
The report states the Gunners are “preparing an official bid”, with Brighton’s asking price understood to be between £43-51 million. There is strong interest from both Manchester clubs, however.
Manchester United hold a “longstanding interest” in Hinshelwood and have made “official enquiries to check his availability” this month. The Red Devils are “planning their own move in the coming days to challenge Arsenal.”
With INEOS keen to add further reinforcements to Michael Carrick’s squad – specifically in midfield and at left-back – a Swiss Army Knife like Hinshelwood would be a valuable addition for the 45-year-old coach this season.
Manchester City are also said to be “considering a swoop”, with the recruitment team at the Etihad having delivered a “glowing review” on the midfielder. Should the two north-west rivals enter the fray, Brighton will almost certainly look to hike the price for their prized asset.
Final Thoughts: The Peoples Person Reliability Assessment
Overall credibility: 5/10
Why?
Manchester United’s interest in signing a new midfielder and full-back has been widely reported this summer – with Hinshelwood offering an option in both areas of the pitch.
The youngster fits the profile INEOS have targeted before in terms of age, experience and Premier League pedigree – such as Andrey Santos.
The Sun is an unreliable source of transfer news at Old Trafford.
Brighton’s reputation as tough negotiators makes the idea of signing one of their best youngsters for a fee as low as £50 million very unlikely.
No official confirmation of interest or offers from the Red Devils.
TPP view:
We believe United hold an interest in Hinshelwood, but would advise waiting for a better source to confirm anything more than this.
Featured image George Wood/Getty Images
