Manchester City target sporting's Morten Hjulmand

Manchester City have entered the race to sign 27‑year‑old Danish midfielder Morten Hjulmand from Sporting Clube de Portugal, with Arsenal also reportedly interested. Hjulmand recorded three goals and six assists in 45 appearances across all competitions last season. His contract runs until the summer of 2028, complicating a summer move.

During the previous campaign Hjulmand featured in 45 matches for Sporting, contributing three goals and six assists. His performances placed him among the top central midfielders in Liga Portugal.

The Danish midfielder’s current deal with Sporting expires in the summer of 2028, meaning the English club would need to negotiate a transfer fee before then. A long‑term contract could increase the price Manchester City must meet.

Hjulmand is described as a strong tackler with good positional sense, capable of winning the ball back defensively. He also possesses accurate passing and can strike from distance, offering a box‑to‑box option if required.

City scouts, however, have raised doubts about his ability to cope with the Premier League’s physical intensity. The step up in pace and contact could test the 27‑year‑old’s adaptability.

Should the deal go through, Manchester City would need to meet Sporting’s valuation before the summer 2028 deadline. The signing would give the English side additional options in midfield for the upcoming campaign.

A photo from October 01, 2025 shows Hjulmand greeting supporters after Sporting’s UEFA Champions League league‑phase match against SSC Napoli in Naples, Italy. The encounter was part of the 2025/26 Champions League schedule.