Chelsea have made a late attempt to hijack Morten Hjulmand’s proposed move to Atletico Madrid by offering the Sporting captain a more lucrative contract.
However, according to Cadena SER, the Denmark international has already chosen Atletico and remains determined to work under Diego Simeone.
The Spanish club are reportedly confident that Chelsea’s intervention will not change the outcome after reaching an agreement with Sporting worth around €40 million.
Chelsea try to hijack Morten Hjulmand transfer
Hjulmand’s future has been one of the longest-running transfer stories of the summer.
Manchester City, Manchester United, Arsenal, Real Madrid and Milan have all been linked with the midfielder at different stages, but Atletico have moved ahead of the competition in recent weeks.
Personal terms were reportedly agreed on a five-year contract before Atletico entered direct negotiations with Sporting.
Sporting president Frederico Varandas previously confirmed that an opening offer had been rejected because it was below the Portuguese club’s valuation. Negotiations have since progressed, with Cadena SER reporting that the clubs have now agreed a package worth around €40 million.
Chelsea have made their move at the final stage.
Journalist Pedro Fullana claims the Blues have offered Hjulmand a “better contract for the future” and are continuing to push for a change of heart.
Hjulmand still wants Atletico move
Despite the improved financial offer from Chelsea, Atletico believe Hjulmand’s decision has already been made.
The 27-year-old is reportedly willing to earn less than he could in England because of his desire to play for Simeone.
That gives Atletico confidence that their agreement will survive Chelsea’s late pressure.
It is a significant development after months of uncertainty around Hjulmand. Manchester City initially appeared well placed because of sporting director Hugo Viana’s previous relationship with the midfielder, while Arsenal were repeatedly mentioned as an attractive destination.
Those possibilities gradually faded as Atletico accelerated negotiations.
Key points
- Chelsea have offered Hjulmand a more lucrative contract.
- Atletico and Sporting reportedly have an agreement worth around €40 million.
- Hjulmand has already agreed a five-year deal with Atletico.
- The midfielder is said to prefer playing for Simeone despite Chelsea’s higher offer.
- Atletico remain confident the transfer will be completed.
What happens next?
Atletico will now look to complete the final steps of the transfer before Chelsea can create another twist.
Given how often Hjulmand’s situation has changed this summer, the deal still requires some caution until contracts are signed. However, the reported club-to-club agreement and the player’s preference leave Atletico in a strong position.
Can Chelsea change Hjulmand’s mind, or is his move to Atletico already beyond saving?
0 Comments
First read message
Leave a comment
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *