Arsenal could have an upper hand over Manchester United in the race to sign Sporting CP midfielder Morten Hjulmand this summer, according to Portuguese outlet Record.

The Denmark international has developed into one of the best midfielders in the Portuguese top-flight. He could pursue a bigger challenge when the transfer window reopens.

The 25-year-old is particularly appreciated by United manager Ruben Amorim, having brought him to Sporting CP from Lecce two years ago.

However, the Gunners are also in the pursuit of the defensive midfielder, having watched him in action over the course of the current campaign.

Hjulmand has a good relationship with Amorim from their time at Sporting CP, but he could still prefer to join the Gunners during the summer.

Record claim that Hjulmand has previously spoken about his dream of playing for Arsenal and could prefer to join the London heavyweights.

He could be signed for around £50 million in the next transfer window.