Sporting CP Sets €80m Barrier for Hjulmand Amidst Premier League Interest

Morten Hjulmand transfer talks have hit a roadblock, as Sporting CP insists that an €80 million bid will not unlock the Danish midfielder’s exit in January, drawing a firm line in negotiations with Manchester United, Manchester City, and Juventus.

Morten Hjulmand Transfer: Sporting CP Stands Firm on January Exit

Sporting CP has categorically ruled out the possibility of Morten Hjulmand leaving during the winter transfer window, despite soaring interest from top European clubs. The Portuguese giants have enacted a unique clause in Hjulmand’s contract—his €80m release clause is only active in the summer window, giving Sporting complete control over his future during the critical January period.

Hjulmand’s performances, notably his commanding display against Juventus in the Champions League, have put him on the radar of elite clubs. Sporting, however, remains unwavering, stating that negotiations are off the table until the summer. The midfielder’s contract runs until 2028, and Sporting’s stance ensures they can demand a premium, blocking any immediate approaches.

Juventus’ Summer Strategy for Hjulmand

Juventus reignited their interest after Hjulmand’s standout showing in Turin, but the club faces its own financial constraints. New CEO Damien Comolli is tasked with navigating the fallout from past legal issues and must restructure contracts or offload key assets before pursuing Hjulmand. Star striker Dusan Vlahovic’s future is closely tied to these plans, with his departure or wage reduction likely freeing funds for a bigger summer push.

Further, Juventus is counting on Douglas Luiz’s potential €30m clause at Nottingham Forest to help fuel their transfer ambitions. Previous bids between €30m and €40m for Hjulmand were swiftly rejected, but this summer, Comolli is expected to return with an improved offer.

Release Clause Details and Summer Negotiations

Sporting CP holds all the cards until June 1, when Hjulmand’s €80m release clause is reactivated. There are indications the club might consider negotiating for a figure closer to €50m, depending on market dynamics. The Danish international’s value has climbed, with two goals and one assist in 11 Liga Portugal matches already this season.

Premier League Clubs Eye Hjulmand Transfer

Manchester United and Manchester City remain keen on securing Hjulmand’s services, viewing him as a transformative signing for their midfield. United’s manager, Ruben Amorim, and City’s sporting director, Hugo Viana, both previously worked at Sporting and were instrumental in bringing Hjulmand from Lecce in 2023—a connection both English sides hope to use in their summer pursuit.

United is particularly focused on Hjulmand as the ideal replacement amid uncertainty surrounding Casemiro, aiming for a deal around €56m. Meanwhile, City boss Pep Guardiola has assigned scouts to monitor Hjulmand closely, seeing him as a tactical fit for their rotation-heavy system.

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What Lies Ahead for Hjulmand and Sporting CP?

Sporting CP is set to focus on both domestic and European competitions, with Hjulmand central to their plans. The club’s upcoming fixtures against Marinhense and Club Brugge underline the importance of retaining their captain for stability and momentum. Sporting’s refusal to negotiate in January means suitors will need patience—true bargaining will only begin when the release clause is once again active in June.

Opinion: Sporting’s Strategy is a Smart Play

Sporting CP’s firm stance protects both their competitive ambitions and Hjulmand’s market value. By deactivating the release clause until summer, they ensure the midfielder remains the heart of their title challenge, while setting up a future bidding war that could maximize their financial return. For United, City, and Juventus, patience and strategic planning will be key if they hope to land one of Europe’s most complete midfielders.