While AC Milan appeared to be the most likely destination for Manchester United striker Rasmus Hojlund, the scenery has suddenly changed following an unexpected development.
The 22-year-old was one of the club’s biggest underperformers in what was one of the worst campaigns in MUFC’s history. In other words, it was an abysmal season for the Denmark international who only scored four times in the Premier League.
Therefore, the young man’s omission from the matchday squad against Arsenal wasn’t necessarily a surprise, especially following the signing of Benjamin Sesko.
Hojlund no longer needed at Man United
In recent days, Hojlund had welcomed the arrival of a direct competitor for his role, while reiterating his desire to stay at Carrington and fight for his place. Nevertheless, Ruben Amorim sent a clear message by excluding him from the team.
Luckily for Hojlund, he remains a popular figure in Italy. He has been linked with almost every top Serie A club this summer.
In recent weeks, Milan emerged as the clear frontrunners in the race for Hojlund. However, the Rossoneri haven’t been able to close the deal with Man Utd who are seeking at least £35 million to part ways with the player in order to avoid registering a capital loss.
Interestingly, this delay could open the door for another club to pounce on the player’s services. According to Italian journalist Gianluigi Longari (via Alfredopedulla.com), the Partenopei have been offered Hojlund as a replacement for Romelu Lukaku who has been ruled out for at least three months after suffering an injury.
The Belgian giant, who once cost Man Utd a whopping £75 million, was one of the main protagonists in Napoli’s charge towards the Scudetto title last season, so his absence will be a major blow for the club.
Napoli can replace Romelu Lukaku with Rasmus Hojlund
The Italian champions have already brought in Lorenzo Lucca from Udinese, but he remains the only striker available at Antonio Conte’s disposal after selling Giacomo Raspadori to Atletico Madrid and Giovanni Simeone to Torino.
The source also mentions that Napoli have enquired about other profiles, including Nicolas Jackson, but Chelsea’s asking price is too high.
For their part, United will be hoping to offload Hojlund as soon as possible in order to raise funds for their remaining market operations. The Red Devils are still planning to sign a midfielder and a goalkeeper.
