Manchester City Lead Race for Sporting's Morten Hjulmand
Manchester City have reportedly made the first move to sign Sporting Lisbon and Denmark midfielder Morten Hjulmand, according to Portuguese media. The Premier League champions have been identified as the current frontrunners for the 26-year-old's signature, having already initiated contact with the Portuguese club. The 26-year-old, who will turn 27 in June, has a release clause set at 80 million euros but could be available for a fee between 40 and 50 million euros, according to the report from Portuguese newspaper 'A Bola'.
The report from 'A Bola' states that Manchester City's pursuit is being aided by their Sporting Director of Football, Txiki Begiristain, whose relationship with Sporting's director, Hugo Viana, is seen as a key factor. Viana, a former Sporting player, is said to be a strong advocate for the move. City are not alone in their interest, however, with the same report naming Manchester United and Italian giants Juventus as serious contenders for the defensive midfielder.
Hjulmand, who joined Sporting from Lecce in the summer of 2021, has developed into a key figure at the heart of the Lisbon club's midfield. His commanding performances in Portugal and for the Danish national team have made him a player in high demand. His current contract with Sporting runs until 2028, giving the Portuguese club a strong negotiating position. The 26-year-old is known for his physicality, ball-winning abilities, and ball progression, a profile that has attracted the attention of Europe's elite clubs.
The potential fee, while significant, is considered a potential bargain for a player of Hjulmand's profile and with his prime years ahead of him. For Manchester City, he would provide a robust and technically sound option in the midfield, potentially as a long-term successor to the likes of Rodri or as a partner in a double pivot. Juventus, who have tracked the player in the past, and Manchester United, with their new sporting structure, are both in the market for a player of his profile, setting the stage for a potential summer bidding war. The player's future is likely to be a major storyline as the transfer window approaches, with his performances at the upcoming European Championship potentially influencing his market value and the intensity of the pursuit.
