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Arsenal ‘strongest contenders’ to sign Sporting midfielder Morten Hjulmand

By on May 22, 2026

Arsenal are the ‘strongest contenders’ in the race to sign Sporting CP midfielder Morten Hjulmand next summer, according to Correio da Manhã via Sport Witness. 

Hjulmand spent the majority of his developmental years in Denmark, progressing through the systems at FC Copenhagen, FCK Youth, and FC Admira Wacker Mödling before securing a move to Serie A side US Lecce in 2021.

He later earned a move to Sporting during the summer of 2023 as the direct successor to Manuel Ugarte, who had departed for Paris Saint-Germain at the time.

Since joining the Portuguese giants, Hjulmand has developed into one of the club’s most influential figures, helping Sporting secure two Portuguese league titles together with one Portuguese Cup.

After surpassing 100 appearances for the Lisbon side and consistently displaying leadership qualities on the pitch, the 26-year-old was appointed team captain in July 2024, becoming a central driving force behind the squad’s overall performances.

Despite Sporting missing out on a third successive Primeira Liga title, the club’s captain has not only been among the best midfielders in Portugal but across Europe, with several clubs now showing interest.

Among the clubs showing interest in Hjulmand, Sport Witness, citing Correio da Manhã, reports that Arsenal are among the ‘strongest contenders’ in the race to sign the midfielder in the summer.

The report adds that Sporting are now exploring potential replacements for the 26-year-old, who is expected to depart the Estádio José Alvalade at the end of the season amid interest from the Gunners.

‘Strongest contenders’

Despite having a pre-existing £69m release clause in his deal, Sporting’s president, Frederico Varandas, is open to lower offers around £34m, with Arsenal now set to battle with Manchester United for his signature, according to the report.

Hjulmand’s pursuit is believed to be part of a squad overhaul that involves a large clear-out of fringe players as the Gunners look to assemble a consistent title-challenging squad.

Christian Nørgaard is among those who could depart after finding it difficult to secure a consistent place in the starting lineup since his move from Brentford.

Across the season, Mikel Arteta has largely preferred the midfield pairing of Declan Rice and Martin Zubimendi, limiting Nørgaard to just 56 minutes of Premier League involvement so far this campaign.

Hjulmand could prove a more capable option who would bring a clear improvement to the Gunners squad if he joins. He also possesses the quality to feature more prominently in the Gunners’ lineup, similar to Mikel Merino, who is a key part of the team despite several available midfielders.