Atlético Madrid have reached an agreement with Sporting CP to sign midfielder Morten Hjulmand for a fee of €40 million, plus add-ons, according to Fabrizio Romano. Both clubs have begun exchanging paperwork, and the 27-year-old Danish international is travelling to Madrid on Tuesday to finalise the transfer.
Hjulmand joined Sporting CP from Lecce in August 2023, signing a contract that was due to run until 2028. He quickly became a key figure in the Portuguese side’s midfield, known for his pressing, ball recovery, and aerial ability, standing at 1.85m tall. His consistent performances in Liga Portugal attracted interest from several clubs across Europe’s top five leagues, but Atlético moved swiftly to secure his signature this summer.
The €40 million fee represents a discount on Hjulmand’s €80 million release clause, indicating Atlético successfully negotiated with Sporting CP. The player will sign a contract with Los Rojiblancos that extends until June 2031, providing the club with five years of contractual security over a player considered to be entering his prime.
The transfer has been developing for several days, with the broad outlines of the agreement already in place before Romano’s confirmation of the final details. Atlético’s willingness to invest significantly this summer suggests a period of structural ambition for the club, rather than simply addressing immediate needs.
Diego Simeone’s interest in Hjulmand stems from the player’s suitability to the manager’s tactical system. Simeone prioritises midfielders who can win possession, protect the defence, and maintain a high level of physical output throughout a demanding season that includes both La Liga and European competition. Hjulmand’s profile is focused on defensive solidity and positional discipline, aligning perfectly with Simeone’s requirements.
Following the agreement, the immediate next steps involve Hjulmand completing a medical examination and signing his contract. The specific details of the add-on clauses included in the deal with Sporting CP have not been publicly disclosed. Once registered, Simeone will begin integrating Hjulmand into the team, and the club will assess the implications for its existing midfield options.
