Morten Hjulmand’s expected summer move is no longer as straightforward as it first appeared, with fresh claims from Portugal suggesting Manchester City have already shifted their focus elsewhere.
The Sporting CP captain had been strongly linked with a move to the Premier League champions in recent weeks. Reports pointed to informal contacts and the influence of Hugo Viana, who previously signed Hjulmand, as key factors that could favour City.
However, according to CNN Portugal pundit Nuno Farinha, that route is now unlikely to materialise.
Manchester City step away from Hjulmand pursuit
Farinha claims Manchester City are no longer actively pursuing Hjulmand despite holding talks earlier this year.
“City will not be the destination for Hjulmand.” — Nuno Farinha, via CNN Portugal
He added that the Premier League side have already defined alternative midfield targets and are now working towards those instead.
That marks a clear shift from the situation in January, when interest was described as concrete and discussions had taken place.
From what we have seen in recent transfer windows, Manchester City tend to move quickly once priorities are set. This change suggests Hjulmand may no longer fit their immediate plans heading into the summer.
However, it remains too early to fully rule anything out until the window opens.
Sporting calm amid growing transfer noise
While speculation continues externally, Sporting manager Rui Borges has taken a measured approach when addressing the situation.
Speaking ahead of the clash with Estrela da Amadora, he made it clear that interest in Hjulmand is viewed as a natural consequence of his performances.
“I think it’s inevitable that people talk about him. He is a great player and he is having a good season.” — Rui Borges, via O Jogo
Borges also stressed that the club are prepared for either outcome, whether Hjulmand stays or moves on this summer.
That stance reflects Sporting’s broader model of developing players and selling at the right moment, rather than reacting to external pressure.
Transfer race shifting as rivals reconsider moves
Farinha also suggested that Atletico Madrid may not pursue Hjulmand either, with the Spanish side reportedly close to signing Ederson from Atalanta.
If that proves accurate, it would remove another major contender from the race and further complicate the picture around the Danish midfielder.
| Stat (2025/26) | Morten Hjulmand |
|---|---|
| Position | Defensive Midfielder |
| Age | 26 |
| Club | Sporting CP |
| Estimated Value | €40m–€50m |
11 April 2026
Despite that, the expectation in Portugal remains that Hjulmand will leave Sporting at the end of the season.
Key Insights
- Manchester City are no longer expected to pursue Morten Hjulmand
- The club have shifted focus to alternative midfield targets
- Sporting remain calm and prepared for a potential departure
- Atletico Madrid may also step away from the race
- A summer transfer is still widely expected
What’s next for Hjulmand?
Hjulmand’s future now hinges on which clubs step forward as the window approaches. With Manchester City and potentially Atletico Madrid cooling their interest, space could open for other Premier League sides.
Sporting are already planning for possible replacements, suggesting they anticipate a sale. The coming weeks are likely to bring more clarity as clubs finalise their priorities ahead of the summer window.
0 Comments
First read message
Leave a comment
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *