Atletico Madrid and Sporting CP are in advanced negotiations regarding a transfer for Danish midfielder Morten Hjulmand, according to transfer reporter Matteo Moretto.
The 25-year-old has been a key target for Atletico throughout the summer transfer window, with initial contact between the clubs reported earlier in July. Hjulmand joined Sporting from Lecce in 2023 and quickly established himself as a pivotal player, even earning the captain’s armband.
Personal terms between Atletico and Hjulmand are reportedly agreed, with his agent, Ivan Marko Benes, having already met with Atletico sporting director Mateu Alemany. The primary obstacle to completing the transfer has been the transfer fee, with Sporting seeking a minimum of €40 million in fixed fees, plus bonuses, citing Hjulmand’s contract which runs until 2028.
Atletico have been aiming for a deal in the region of €45 million including add-ons, and are known for structuring deals with performance-based incentives. The club has no intention of meeting Hjulmand’s €80 million release clause, preferring to negotiate a more manageable fee. The key point of contention remains whether Sporting will accept a significant portion of the fee being conditional.
Sporting are keen to resolve the situation before their pre-season camp begins on July 11, as uncertainty surrounding their captain’s future is disrupting preparations. Atletico have been actively seeking to strengthen their midfield this summer, and Hjulmand’s age and skillset align with Diego Simeone’s long-term vision for the team.
Atletico are expected to submit a revised offer in the coming days, potentially testing Sporting’s willingness to compromise on the fee structure. If the financial gap narrows, the transfer could be completed swiftly, with personal terms already in place and both clubs appearing eager to finalize the deal.
