Morten Hjulmand, Rasmus Hojlund. (Kristian Tuxen Ladegaard Berg/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
Arsenal could once again turn to the transfer market this summer as Mikel Arteta looks to add further depth and balance to his midfield options ahead of another demanding campaign.
While the Gunners already boast strong competition in central areas, concerns remain over squad depth.
Christian Norgaard’s long-term future continues to be uncertain, while Mikel Merino and Martin Odegaard’s recurring injury problems have limited their consistency. As a result, Arsenal are believed to be exploring new midfield profiles to strengthen the group.
Now, it appears discussions have already taken place over a potential target.
Arsenal In Talks for Morten Hjulmand
Arsenal have been in contact in recent weeks regarding Sporting Lisbon midfielder Morten Hjulmand, who is expected to be one of the more in-demand names heading into the summer window.
According to reports from CaughtOffside, the Denmark international is being monitored by several top European clubs, including Manchester United, but Arsenal are among those who have already made direct enquiries.
One source explained the situation: “Arsenal were in touch recently, Man United are also asking to be kept informed. Sporting have given clubs the signal — he has an €80m release clause, but start negotiations at around €60m and there’s a chance he can go.”
The same report suggests Sporting are open to negotiations below the release clause, although they remain well known for driving strong deals, particularly in high-demand situations.
Another source added that the Portuguese club are aware of growing interest and could be willing to sanction a sale if a bidding battle develops.
“This is their model, and has been for a long time. They know this is a chance to make significant profit on the player, and he’ll be keen to make the step up to a higher level as well.”
However, there is also an expectation that Sporting will not make the deal straightforward, with rival interest likely to push the fee closer to the €80m mark if multiple clubs become involved.
For Arsenal, Hjulmand represents a potential long-term solution in midfield, but any move is likely to depend on how aggressively they choose to enter what could quickly become a competitive European transfer race.
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