Atlético Madrid Accelerates Talks for Sporting Captain, Agents in Spanish Capital

Representatives for Morten Hjulmand are currently in Spain to finalize an agreement between the Danish international and Atlético Madrid, according to Spanish newspaper "Marca." The Spanish publication reports that the "Rojiblancos" are eager to conclude the transfer swiftly, as they hope to have the Dane available as early as Monday, when Diego Simeone's squad begins its pre-season preparations. To this end, Hjulmand's representatives are set to discuss all terms with Atlético's sporting director, Mateu Alemany, in the coming hours.

Atlético Madrid has been in advanced negotiations with the player's agents for several days, and the club's management is aware that the Danish international is keen to play for them.

However, Atlético Madrid still needs to meet Sporting's asking price. After their initial offer of €30 million plus €5 million in bonuses was rejected, the "Colchoneros" are preparing to submit a new proposal worth €35 million, retaining the €5 million in additional bonuses.

This total sum of €40 million, however, may not be enough to convince Sporting. As "Record" reported, the "Lions" are aiming for a deal that could reach €45 million. In other words, they want to receive €40 million as a base fee, plus €5 million dependent on performance-related targets. At present, all parties believe the transfer will ultimately go through, but it remains to be seen whether Hjulmand will be in Lagos for the start of the Portuguese team's training camp on July 11, or if he will head directly to Madrid.