Alious
Sporting CP’s midfield anchor, Morten Hjulmand, has caught the eye across Europe, and one of his country’s most recognizable former players believes it’s time for him to take the next step — possibly to the Premier League.
Former Denmark international Nicklas Bendtner has publicly backed the 25-year-old to consider a move to either Aston Villa or Newcastle United if he decides to leave Portugal this summer. Speaking on the *Stolpe Ind* podcast, Bendtner praised Hjulmand’s rise and believes he’s well suited for the physicality and pace of English football.
Hjulmand has been a standout performer for Sporting since arriving from Lecce in a €19.5 million deal in 2023. Over the last two seasons, he’s become one of the club’s most valuable assets, drawing consistent interest from clubs across Europe — particularly in the Premier League.
Despite that attention, Sporting are determined to keep him. According to *A Bola*, the Lisbon side will only consider parting ways with their star midfielder if his full €80 million release clause is triggered — a steep figure that may ward off some suitors.
Still, Bendtner believes a club like Newcastle or Villa could be the right fit if Hjulmand is to make a move. “He’s impressed me with his performances, not just in the national team, but also with Sporting,” Bendtner explained. “He deserves to play for a club that’s fighting for silverware. He could handle the demands of English or Spanish football. At Atlético Madrid, he’d probably walk onto the pitch side by side with Simeone. At Newcastle, he’d thrive in their high-energy midfield. And I think Aston Villa would also be a great environment where he could elevate his game further.”
While Newcastle and Villa both boast strong midfield rosters — and Bendtner admits Hjulmand would face stiff competition at St. James’ Park — he insists the Dane has the qualities to make an impact at top clubs already performing at a high level.
Whether either side will be willing to spend big to secure him remains to be seen. But with Hjulmand’s stock rising, this summer may be the window where he becomes one of the most talked-about midfielders on the market.
Alious
