Manchester United and Juventus Eye Sporting CP’s Morten Hjulmand with €80 Million Release Clause
A Tug of War for Sporting CP’s Defensive Midfielder
Morten Hjulmand, the 26-year-old Danish defensive midfielder, has become one of the most sought-after midfielders in European football this summer. The regular first-team player for Sporting CP carries a hefty €80 million (£69 million) release clause, which stipulates the price tag that any club must meet to secure his services. This summer, Manchester United and Juventus stand as the front-runners to acquire his signature, while Tottenham Hotspur has cooled its interest, and Inter Milan remains an observer in the background.
Why Hjulmand Is So Highly Valued
Hjulmand has showcased remarkable consistency in the 2024/25 Liga Portugal season with Sporting CP. His statistics underline his midfield dominance:
- 28 league appearances – a staple on Sporting’s pitch
- 2 goals and 2 assists – contributing offensively
- Average of 65.5 touches and 49.3 accurate passes per game with an impressive 91% pass accuracy
- Winning 62% of total duels, highlighting his defensive tenacity
His role as a ball-winning, distribution-savvy defensive midfielder perfectly suits clubs needing greater midfield security and control. Sporting CP continues to rely heavily on players like Hjulmand to maintain their strong midfield stability and solid position in the Portuguese league.
Transfer Dynamics: The €80 Million Release Clause
Sporting CP values Hjulmand highly, embedding a steep €80 million release clause in his contract, which extends until 2028. While this sets a clear baseline, reports indicate Sporting might be open to negotiation around €50-60 million, potentially sweetening the deal for interested clubs.
Manchester United’s Pursuit
Manchester United has identified Hjulmand as a prime target to reinforce their midfield during a critical squad rebuilding phase under the guidance of manager Ruben Amorim—the very coach under whom Hjulmand thrived at Sporting. The Red Devils have scouted him extensively—six times this season—boosting their belief in his capabilities to bring greater balance and ball retention to their midfield, potentially filling gaps left by veterans like Casemiro and Eriksen. Rumors suggest MUFC is preparing an offer reportedly in the €50-60 million range, confident of closing the deal despite the high release clause.
Juventus Plan to Replace Douglas Luiz
Across Serie A, Juventus eyes Hjulmand as the perfect replacement for Douglas Luiz to shore up their midfield with a robust and skilled defensive anchor. The Italian giants appear willing to compete financially to secure the Dane’s signature, with their interest possibly giving them an edge over other suitors.
Tottenham Hotspur and Inter Milan’s Status
Initially, Tottenham Hotspur showed serious intent, viewing Hjulmand as a strategic midfield addition. However, new developments—curiously linked to details like a tattoo revelation—have cooled Spurs’ pursuit, and they currently appear to have dropped out of the transfer race. Inter Milan remains interested but has yet to make a concrete move, allowing the battle primarily between Manchester United and Juventus to take center stage.
What’s Next for Morten Hjulmand?
With multiple top European clubs aligned in this transfer saga, much hinges on Sporting CP’s willingness to negotiate below the release clause, and how aggressively Manchester United and Juventus are ready to bid. At 26 years old, Hjulmand is entering his prime, making this a crucial career juncture. Both clubs seek a player capable of stabilizing and energizing their midfield play immediately, and Hjulmand fits this profile with proven league credentials and international calibre.
Sources consulted include Tottenham Hotspur News, TransferFeed, Tribuna, and The Faithful MUFC.
What is Morten Hjulmand’s current release clause at Sporting CP?
His release clause is set at €80 million (approximately £69 million), which any interested club must meet to sign him without negotiation.
Which clubs are interested in signing Morten Hjulmand?
Manchester United and Juventus are leading the race, with Tottenham Hotspur reportedly withdrawing and Inter Milan keeping an eye on developments.
How has Morten Hjulmand performed in the 2024/25 season?
He played 28 league matches, scored 2 goals, assisted 2 times, averaged 65.5 touches per game, maintained a 91% pass accuracy, and won 62% of his duels.
Why is Juventus interested in Hjulmand?
Juventus plans to sign Hjulmand as a replacement for Douglas Luiz to bolster their midfield with a strong defensive player.
What role does Ruben Amorim have in this transfer?
Ruben Amorim, the current Manchester United manager and former Sporting CP coach, values Hjulmand highly and has been instrumental in identifying him as a transfer target.
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