Cardiff City have reportedly seen a £5.5 million bid rejected for Norwegian midfielder Jens Hjertø-Dahl as they compete with Rangers for the 20-year-old's signature, according to the Daily Record and Sky Sports.
The Bluebirds have outbid Rangers, who had a £5 million offer turned down last week. Tromsø are holding out for around £7.5 million, with both clubs considering improved offers.
Cardiff's Midfield Priority
Central midfield is a key area for Cardiff following the departure of Ryan Wintle, last season's Player of the Year, who joined MK Dons. Current options include Eli King, Dakarai Mafico, and Alex Robertson.
The reported fee would represent one of Cardiff's biggest recent transfer bids and a significant statement from the newly-promoted Championship club under manager Brian Barry-Murphy.
Tromsø Confirms Negotiations
Tromsø sporting director Lars Petter Kraemer-Andressen confirmed negotiations are ongoing. "There have been negotiations over the past week. We'll see what happens, it could take a while. Several clubs are interested, but a lot has to fall into place for something to happen," he said.
He added that the club has "pretty high expectations for the price" and that the move must suit the player.
Hjertø-Dahl's Background
Hjertø-Dahl, a Norway U21 international, joined Tromsø's academy at age six and made his senior debut in 2023. He captained the U18 side and was named among the CIES Football Observatory's top 100 players under 20 in 2024.
Former Norway U18 boss Luís Pimenta described him as a "future leader," praising his physicality and composure.
The midfielder has previously indicated a preference for Rangers over Turkish side Besiktas, but Cardiff's bid could sway his decision.
