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Manchester City are reportedly closing in on a deal for Sporting Lisbon star Morten Hjulmand as Pep Guardiola attempts to overhaul his midfield. A number of changes in the centre of the park are expected at the Etihad this summer.

Bernardo Silva is set to exit ahead of next season, while Rodri’s future remaining up in the air amid interest from Real Madrid . As per A Bola , City have already made informal contact with Sporting over Hjulmand, having been left impressed by the Danish international’s performances.

The former Lecce star also fits the profile that City are looking for when it comes to tactical awareness and physicality. The Premier League side are reportedly keen to seal his services ahead of next season, with Sporting seemingly open to a deal.

Hjulmand currently has a €80m release clause written into his contract but Sporting could demand significantly less than that. It is also suggested that Hugo Viana could have a big role to play in any deal, having also signed the midfielder during his time with Sporting.

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In all, Hjulmand has made 135 appearances for Sporting and has scored on nine occasions. City’s interest is not the first time that Hjlumand has been linked with a Premier League move.

Tottenham were apparently eyeing ihim n the past, albeit his affection for North London rivals Arsenal might have caused an issue. The midfielder has an Arsenal tattoo on his arm and previously admitted: “My dad supported Arsenal and we watched games together when we were younger.”

Manchester United were also strongly linked with a swoop for Hjlumand during Ruben Amorim ’s time at Old Trafford - a move that current captain Bruno Fernandes would have been a big fan of. He said: "You have a lot of midfielders.

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"One of them, because of his intelligence and the dynamic he brings to the game, is Fredrik Aursnes. He's a player who would adapt to the Premier League regardless of his physicality. He's slim‐built, but I believe intelligent players always prevail here. Obviously, Morten Hjulmand is a complete player at the moment."

Asked if he would like to see Hjulmand become a United player, Fernandes added: “He's a player who adds to the team.

"He's intelligent, aggressive, and in the Premier League you need that. But only once you're here do you realise if you're really made for the Premier League, because it's very different compared to other leagues. In my view, Hjulmand would adapt well here, but I also see him fitting in the Italian league."

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