Arsenal and Manchester United are reportedly competing to sign Sporting CP captain Morten Hjulmand, according to Portuguese media. The 26-year-old Denmark international joined Sporting from Lecce in 2023 for €21 million (£18.1m) and has since helped the club win consecutive Portuguese league titles. Hjulmand, who plays as a holding midfielder, has also been named in the Primeira Liga Team of the Year for the past two seasons.
Transfer Momentum Building
According to Correio da Manha, interest from both Arsenal and United has accelerated, with Hjulmand's departure now gaining momentum. The report claims he nearly left Sporting last summer but stayed after an agreement that he could leave this summer for around €40m (£34.9m). Hjulmand still has two years left on his contract, which includes an €80m (£69.8m) release clause.
Sporting CP head coach Rui Borges acknowledged the likelihood of summer sales, stating on Friday: 'Regarding the transfer market, it’s what happens every year. Some leave and others come in. I’m very focused on tomorrow’s game because it’s very important. Although we didn’t achieve our main objective, now we want to finish second to qualify for the Champions League.'
Manchester United's Midfield Plans
Manchester United are seeking at least one new central midfielder this summer, with Casemiro set to leave Old Trafford as a free agent at the end of the season. United have evaluated several options, including Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson, Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton, Brighton’s Carlos Baleba, West Ham’s Mateus Fernandes, and Newcastle United’s Sandro Tonali. Hjulmand now emerges as a key target alongside these names.
Arsenal, meanwhile, are also looking to bolster their midfield, and Hjulmand’s experience and leadership qualities make him an attractive prospect for both Premier League giants. The coming weeks are expected to bring further developments as the transfer window approaches.
