Atlético Madrid likes Hjulmand… and Sporting knows it (but another club is also interested)

Sporting Lisbon is currently unaware of any official bid from Atlético Madrid for Morten Hjulmand. While they can't predict if an offer from the Spanish giants will land in Alvalade, the club is well aware of Atlético's strong interest in the midfielder, who is expected to facilitate a move this summer. The Madrid-based club could make a move for the 26-year-old Dane soon, with Everton also reportedly keeping tabs on him.

Atlético Madrid's interest is not new. Recall the incident on February 1st, just hours before Sporting's 2-1 victory over Nacional in matchday 20, where Suárez scored in the 90+6th minute. Hjulmand missed that game due to a potential last-minute approach from Atlético before the winter transfer window closed. The situation clearly affected the midfielder, who was excused from the squad's training camp for the match.

At that time, Sporting received an inquiry through Hjulmand's agents about a hypothetical €30 million offer, supposedly from Atlético Madrid, which ultimately never materialized. However, the genuine appreciation for the player's qualities was evident and remains so, a fact not lost on the Lions.

Last summer, Juventus was linked with the Danish international. Then, as in January, only his €80 million release clause would have been enough to pry him away from Alvalade. Now, half that amount could secure his departure, as the Sporting board agreed with the player to facilitate a transfer for €40 million or more to keep him for another season.

Therefore, Atlético Madrid will need to formalize their interest in Hjulmand with an offer of at least that amount. Sporting is vigilant, knowing that the captain is highly regarded by the *Colchoneros*. The player's name has also recently been linked with Real Madrid, managed by... José Mourinho.

On Tuesday, Antena 1 reported an agreement between the *Rojiblancos* and Hjulmand, an understanding that Sporting denies knowledge of. Mundo Deportivo added that the Madrid club could triple the midfielder's salary. Sporting is still awaiting an official proposal, or proposals, as *A BOLA* understands that Everton also has the Dane in their sights. Between the Spanish and English clubs, the captain reportedly prefers a move to the Iberian Peninsula.

Hjulmand, who was recently excused from the Danish national team due to injury for friendlies against Congo and Ukraine, is under contract with Sporting until 2028.