Arsenal have been granted permission to sign Sporting CP midfielder Morten Hjulmand, with the Danish international reportedly a long-time supporter of the club. The 27-year-old was previously linked with a move away from Sporting last year, attracting interest from Manchester United, but ultimately remained in Lisbon.
Sporting initially demanded any potential suitors meet Hjulmand’s €80 million release clause, however, the Portuguese club are now willing to accept a fee of €50 million for the player. Hjulmand has been a key figure for Sporting since joining from Lecce in 2023, captaining the side and consistently delivering strong performances in midfield.
Sporting have already begun preparing for Hjulmand’s departure, agreeing a deal to sign Real Betis midfielder Sergi Altimira for €18 million plus add-ons. Altimira is expected to undergo a medical within the next 24 hours, paving the way for Hjulmand to move on.
While Manchester United have again been mentioned in connection with Hjulmand, their focus appears to be on Mateus Fernandes. This potentially opens the door for Arsenal, who reportedly made contact with Hjulmand’s representatives last month. The player’s affinity for the Gunners, evidenced by a tattoo of the club’s badge, suggests he would be eager to complete a transfer.
Arsenal are currently engaged in negotiations with Newcastle United for Bruno Guimaraes, but the Magpies are reluctant to sell. Hjulmand would represent a more affordable alternative, though he is not considered to be at the same level as Guimaraes. However, given Arsenal’s existing midfield options, Hjulmand could provide valuable depth and competition, potentially surpassing the impact of Christian Norgaard, who struggled to establish himself in his first season with the club and may be available this summer. A move to the Premier League appears increasingly likely for Hjulmand this transfer window.
