Former Napoli midfielder Ivano Trotta believes his former club have signed an absolute ‘bargain’ over the summer in the form of Rasmus Hojlund.
Throughout the early stages of the window, it was thought Hojlund’s future was never set in stone at Old Trafford amid INEOS’ quest to sign a new centre-forward.
When the Dane became aware that his position may come under threat, he sought to make it clear that he wanted to stay put, telling reporters during Manchester United’s pre-season tour that he had every intention of seeing out his contract (until 2028) in M16.
Why United opted to part ways with Rasmus Hojlund
Yet, such decisions are ultimately not up to the player. Whilst United were progressing in their pursuit of Benjamin Sesko, transfer chiefs were already plotting for Hojlund’s departure – just two years after he signed for the club.
His lacklustre form in a red shirt gave him no leg to stand on, unfortunately. The 22-year-old did record 10 Premier League goals in his maiden campaign, but proceeded to find the back of the net only four times in 32 appearances last season.
Alas, when Napoli came knocking in the aftermath of Romelu Lukaku’s injury setback, United were keen to negotiate a swift deal.
Hojlund joined the reigning Serie A champions on loan for the term for an initial fee of £5.1 million. Next summer, they will be expected to sign him permanently for £38 million.
Hojlund gets off to dream start for Napoli
He has already got off the mark in Naples, too, scoring in his debut to help clinch a 3-1 opening-day victory over Fiorentina.
Tonight, he is expected to feature for Napoli in their Champions League clash against Manchester City at the Etihad, where United sustained a 3-0 defeat only four days ago.
Impressed by what he’s seen from the young frontman already, Trotta told TuttoMercatoWeb: “Hojlund is an extraordinary player. He really impressed me against Fiorentina. He has incredible qualities. The €40-50 million [£34-43 million] spent is justified because we are talking about a young talent with great potential.
“In the end, things turned out well because Hojlund has shown himself to be a very strong footballer, and for the price Napoli paid, they got a bargain. In just 14 minutes, he scored a goal as a pure striker. It wasn’t easy to read that vertical pass from Spinazzola and avoid being caught offside. He has the traits of a top player.
“That goal was extremely difficult because the defender was closing in, and he used his body perfectly to hold his position, while keeping composure,” said Trotta whilst relaying Hojlund’s contribution over the weekend.
He continued: “However, what impressed me the most was his ability to help the team move up the pitch. When Napoli played quick, vertical passes, he shielded the ball, and the defender couldn’t get in front of him. That is decisive.
“He’s a strong player, with great potential and in my opinion, Napoli even underpaid for the great value he brings. Once again, they’ve made a great signing.”
