Atletico Madrid and Sporting CP are advancing towards an agreement for midfielder Morten Hjulmand. Transfer reporter Matteo Moretto has confirmed that both clubs are in advanced negotiations regarding the Danish international.

A Saga That Has Been Building Since June
Hjulmand, who joined Sporting from Lecce in 2023 and has since captained the Lisbon club, emerged as one of the Primeira Liga's top midfielders. Atletico has been monitoring him throughout the summer, with initial club-to-club contact reported in early July 2026. Although Sporting acknowledged the approach, they did not act immediately.

The player’s representation has not complicated matters. Hjulmand’s agent, Ivan Marko Benes, has met with Atletico’s sporting director Mateu Alemany to discuss personal terms, with a verbal understanding reportedly achieved. The primary hurdle remains the transfer fee.

The Fee Structure Atletico and Sporting Are Negotiating
Sporting insists on a minimum of €40 million in fixed fees, plus bonuses, citing Hjulmand’s contract that runs until 2028. Reports suggest the club values him between €40 million and €50 million, while Atletico aims for a total around €45 million including add-ons. Hjulmand’s contract includes an €80 million release clause, but Atletico prefers a negotiated deal below this.

The key issue lies in whether Sporting will accept a deal where a significant portion of the fee is conditional. If an agreement can be reached on this aspect, both clubs seem eager to finalize the transfer.

Timing Is Starting to Matter for Sporting
With a pre-season camp scheduled for July 11, Sporting is under pressure to resolve the situation before then. The uncertainty surrounding Hjulmand's future could hinder their preparations, adding urgency to the negotiations, which benefits Atletico.

Atletico has been actively reshaping their midfield and views Hjulmand, 25, as a long-term solution for Diego Simeone’s squad.

What Happens Next
Atletico is expected to submit a revised offer soon, likely testing Sporting's stance on an add-on-heavy structure as the July deadline approaches. If both parties can bridge the financial gap, a swift conclusion to the deal is anticipated, especially as personal terms are already agreed upon and both clubs appear motivated to finalize the transaction.