Atlético Madrid signs Morten Hjulmand for around 40 million euros from Sporting Lisbon

From Admira, Hjulmand's path led on to the Italian Serie A. "before he moved to Lecce in Italy in 2021 for a transfer fee," it was stated. At Lecce, he celebrated promotion to Serie A in 2022 and increased his market value to 15 million euros by the time of his move to Lisbon a year later. From there, his path took him to Sporting Lisbon.

At the Portuguese club, Hjulmand quickly became a key player and captain. "From 2024/25, he led the Leões onto the field as captain and, despite his defensive focus, shone during his time for the Portuguese with 22 goal contributions in 141 appearances," Sporting summed up his departure. With Sporting, Hjulmand won the Portuguese league title twice before the transfer to Atlético Madrid was completed.

Record fee for Atlético

The transfer fee that Sporting Lisbon receives is 40 million euros according to the club. Through bonus payments, the total amount could rise to up to 45 million euros. This makes Hjulmand the most expensive defensive signing for the Madrid club – ahead of Robin Le Normand, who was signed two years ago for 34.5 million euros. The previously most expensive natural defensive midfielders were Arthur Vermeeren and Rodri, each for 20 million euros.

In the history of the most expensive Danish players, Hjulmand ranks third, behind Rasmus Højlund, for whom Manchester United paid 80 million euros in 2023, and ahead of Patrick Dorgu, who moved to Manchester United for 30 million euros in 2025. Hjulmand thus becomes the second most expensive Dane in football history.

His market value is currently estimated at 45 million euros, making him one of the 15 most valuable number sixes worldwide – on a level with Stuttgart's Angelo Stiller and Amadou Onana of Aston Villa. At Atlético Madrid, coached in LaLiga by Diego Simeone, Hjulmand is expected to strengthen the defence and provide stability in central midfield.

Significance for both clubs

Sporting Lisbon is losing not only its captain in Hjulmand, but also a key figure in midfield. The Portuguese club will have to reorganise under coach Rui Borges in the new season. With Sergi Altimira, a transfer was recently announced as a successor – but replacing the Danish leader will be difficult.

The transfer marks another step in the international career path of the Danish international, who has gained experience in five different countries: Denmark, Austria, Italy, Portugal, and now Spain. "and now on to Atlético Madrid," the club commented on the transfer. For Hjulmand, the biggest chapter of his professional career so far begins.