Arsenal's midfield plans for the summer are already taking shape behind the scenes. The club is expected to revisit many of the names they tracked last year.
One of them is Sporting CP captain Morten Hjulmand.
Hjulmand's role and numbers
Morten Hjulmand's importance to Sporting explains both the interest and plans for his exit.
Since arriving from Lecce in 2023, he has become one of the central figures in the team and now wears the captain's armband. His role is built on control, defensive work and leadership.
In terms of output also, he has contributed continuously this season. In all competitions in 2025/26, Hjulmand made approximately 41 appearances, scoring 3 goals and providing 4 assists.
FootyStats data from the 2025/26 season shows that he averages around 2.8 tackles and 2.0 interceptions per 90 minutes. Furthermore, he makes around 6.6 ball recoveries per match. These numbers highlight his role as the primary shield in front of the defense.
He also contributes to the structure in possession. Hjulmand is averaging over 60 passes per game and passing accuracy is over 85%. Furthermore, he makes approximately 1.1 key passes per 90 minutes. This helps maintain the pace of the game and the link phases.
This combination makes him a reliable presence rather than a high-variance one. This is something that Arsenal have often prioritized in their midfield formation.
a familiar profile
The Danish midfielder has been on Arsenal's radar for some time. He fits the club's values – disciplined, positionally strong and capable of leading the team. This gives others a chance to play ahead of him.
There is also a personal layer to it. Hjulmand is a known Arsenal fan and even has a tattoo related to the club, something that has been noted before When his name came up in transfer discussions.
Meanwhile, Sporting is a club that Arsenal's recruitment staff are keeping a close eye on, as reported record. Portuguese sides regularly develop midfielders who are tactically mature and ready for top level football. This keeps their key players in constant focus of the Premier League.
Against that backdrop, there is now clear hope in Portugal that Hjulmand can move on this summer – and at a price that will change the conversation.
Exit path opens at €40m
As we covered earlier this yearSporting are already preparing for life after Morten Hjulmand.
There is an understanding that if an offer of around €40m (£34m) is received the midfielder will be allowed to leave at the end of the season. record They say. The figure is well below his €80m (£69m) release clause. This effectively serves as a realistic market entry point.
The expectation within is that he will go. Sporting has already begun to identify replacements, with plans to sign a new defensive midfielder capable of stepping straight into the team.
They are also considering sweeping midfield changes. The club is planning to bring in additional central players, anticipate departures and reshape the balance of the squad ahead of next season.
What does this mean for Arsenal
The situation is now clearer than ever for Arsenal. Hjulmand is not just a watchable player. He's someone who could realistically be available at a set price point this summer.
The €40 million (£34 million) figure puts him within reach of several Premier League clubs, including the Gunners.
There is no indication of further talks at this stage. The midfielder is focused on finishing the season with Sporting and has not yet opened the door to negotiations. Still, the situation still remains the same.
Arsenal are considering midfield options. Hjulmand fits the strategic profile. Has a known personal connection with the club. And Sporting appears ready to sell on the right terms.
That combination is usually enough to keep the transfer story active - and that combination looks to evolve as the window approaches.
