Morten Hjulmand Joins Atlético de Madrid

Transfer Agreement Finalised

Atlético de Madrid and Sporting CP have completed a deal for Sporting captain Morten Hjulmand. The €40 million move was first reported by Rubén Uría, with Sporting set to earn an extra €5 million depending on appearances and Atlético’s progress in the Champions League. The 27‑year‑old signed a five‑year contract running to 2031 and touched down in Madrid on Thursday for a medical, with the signing expected before the club’s preseason camp opens on Monday.

Career Background and Recent Track Record

Hjulmand, a Denmark international, has previously played in Austria (Admira Wacker) and Italy (Lecce) before establishing himself at Sporting. During his time with the Leões he helped the team capture two league titles and reach the Champions League quarter‑finals in the 2025/26 season. Last term he netted three times and contributed four assists in 27 Primeira Liga matches.

Playing Style and Midway Roles

Regarded as a strong positional midfielder, Hjulmand excels at ball progression and covers large areas of the pitch, often winning the ball back at a high rate. His skill set dovetails well with Atlético’s existing midfielders Pablo Barrios and Johnny Cardoso, offering Diego Simeone a viable alternative to veteran captain Koke, who recently renewed his contract for another season. Injuries have been limited for the player throughout his career.

Potential Challenges and Squad Context

Adjusting to LaLiga’s faster tempo will be a key test, and Hjulmand’s tendency to collect cards could hinder his impact. He amassed 40 yellow cards in 114 league games for Sporting (with a solitary red) and ended the previous campaign with 14 yellows across 37 appearances in both league and Champions League play. Meanwhile, Atlético faces midfield depth concerns: Barrios, Cardoso and Rodri Mendoza all enter the new season with injury questions, Koke will turn 35 in January, and 20‑year‑old Obed Vargas may be loaned out.

Expectations and Future Outlook

Given the inflated prices for midfielders this summer, securing Hjulmand for an initial €40 million represents a solid acquisition for Atlético. The club hopes he can deliver immediate results and emerge as a natural successor to Koke, providing the tempo and organisation the midfield has lacked in recent transfers. If he adapts quickly to Spanish football’s stricter refereeing style, Hjulmand could become a cornerstone of Simeone’s plans for the upcoming campaign.