Morten Hjulmand has become Atlético Madrid’s main target for strengthening the midfield, but the transfer has a clear red line: The red-and-white club has no intention of paying more than 40 million euros.
The first bid has already been rejected by Sporting Lisbon, who believe the sum from the Metropolitano is too low. Sporting president Frederico Varandas has publicly raised the bar and made it clear that he is not selling his captain below what he considers to be real market value.
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In Madrid, however, they are convinced that the negotiations can find an intermediate solution.
35 + 5 – the structure that will make it work
Atlético’s plan is to secure Hjulmand for around 35 million euros fixed plus 5 million in variables. This structure means that they stay within the budget framework for the summer. Above this amount, Atlético does not want to go into a bidding war – it would only drive the price up unnecessarily.
The Dane, 27, has a contract with Sporting until 2028, a buyout clause of 80 million, and a market value of around 45 million. The numbers explain Sporting’s stubborn attitude – but also Atlético’s caution. Paying more than 40 million for a defensive midfielder would break with Mateu Alemany’s plan.
Hjulmand – more than just numbers
The player fits Atlético’s profile, age and requirements. Hjulmand is 1,85 meters tall, excels as an anchor in midfield, and offers aggression, versatility and leadership at the heart of the team. He is not an attacking midfielder with impressive goal statistics – three goals and six assists in 45 games last season – but a player designed to organise, intercept and be the backbone of the team.
The player wants to go to La Liga – but Sporting are pushing
What keeps the optimism alive is Morten Hjulmand’s own wish. The Danish international is positive about a move to La Liga and believes Atlético’s project could be the ideal step to establish himself in a top league.
This willingness does not force Sporting to sell, but it does help lighten the mood. At Atlético, they are aware that this case is similar to other recent transfers – Joao Gomes and Ederson were also on the list to strengthen the midfield, but Wolves and Atalanta’s demands over 40 million put an end to both.
With Hjulmand, the goal is to avoid a similar wear and tear process – and stay the course.
The budget sets the limit
The arrival of Grimaldo and the pursuit of Kang-in Lee are already affecting Atlético’s budget. These two transfers will cost a total of around 45 million, so the signing of a defensive midfielder must be within a net investment of around 80 million – before any sale.
If big players leave the club, new opportunities can open up. But the starting line is clear.
Decisive phase
The Morten Hjulmand transfer is now entering a crucial phase. Atlético Madrid want the Sporting captain, the player is interested in La Liga, and Sporting want to maximize the transfer fee.
Variables, payment deadlines and Atlético’s ability to convince without exceeding the financial limit will be crucial.
Morten Hjulmand is wanted – but not at any price.
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