Manchester United and Arsenal could lose midfield target – Atletico claim changes race

Manchester United and Arsenal have spent recent weeks being presented as the leading contenders for Morten Hjulmand. However, the Sporting captain’s transfer saga has developed a habit of changing direction every few days.

Recent Portuguese reports pointed towards Manchester United and Arsenal. Both clubs were described as leading the race for the Danish international.

This week there was a Real Madrid twist after reports suggested José Mourinho had identified Hjulmand as a target if he were to arrive at the Spanish giants.

Now another contender has surged back into the picture. And this time, Atletico Madrid are being described with their strongest position yet.

Atletico claim changes the story

According to reports emerging from Spain and Portugal, Atletico Madrid have already reached an agreement with Hjulmand. Now they only need to convince Sporting.

Mundo Deportivo, citing information from Portuguese broadcaster Antena 1, claims Diego Simeone’s side have practically settled personal terms with the midfielder. They are now preparing a fresh approach to Sporting.

If correct, it would represent the most advanced development involving any of the clubs linked with Hjulmand so far.

Atletico’s previous attempt came during the January transfer window. The Spanish side were willing to offer around €25m (£21m) at the time. However, Sporting were never interested in discussing a deal at that level.

Now the expectation is that any serious proposal will need to move much closer to the figure already established between player and club.

Sporting agreement remains central

Sporting are understood to have an informal agreement with Hjulmand allowing him to leave this summer for around €40m-€50m (£34m-£43m), despite the midfielder’s official release clause standing at €80m (£69m).

That understanding has been referenced repeatedly across Portuguese reports. And according to the latest claims, Atletico are fully aware of those conditions. They are preparing their next move accordingly.

The reports also state that the Madrid club are willing to triple Hjulmand’s current salary at Sporting. This proposal would satisfy the player’s financial expectations.

And if Atletico’s latest move is as advanced as being reported, Manchester United and Arsenal may suddenly find themselves chasing rather than leading.