Manchester United first priority this window was to add goals, and they have already done that with the additions of Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha.
Next on the agenda is recruiting an elite striker to replace the hapless Rasmus Hojlund, who managed a meagre four Premier League goals last season, while also struggling with his general gameplay.
Ruben Amorim has already missed out on three of his top targets — Victor Osimhen, Viktor Gyokeres and Liam Delap, and the only way to land one before the window closes will be dependant on sales.
Inter Milan were eyeing a move for the Dane, but talks subsided due to the formula being proposed by each team. While the Serie A giants were eyeing a loan move, United wanted a permanent solution.
Rasmus Hojlund back to Italy
But with time running out, INEOS are now slowly coming to grips with the fact that an initial loan might have to be considered. They are still likely to demand for an obligation to buy.
Foot Mercato have claimed the Denmark international’s former club Atalanta, and Lazio, currently managed by Maurizio Sarri, both view him as their perfect attacking recruit.
However, both Italian clubs are ready to offer only a loan with an option to buy, not even an obligation, while they would also want United to pay a part of his wages.
“According to our sources, Rasmus Højlund is looking more than ever for a way out of the transfer window. Seeking a new challenge, the Danish striker no longer seems to be fully included in Manchester United’s plans, despite a mixed first season.
“While Juventus’ interest is well known, the Bianconeri have not made any real approaches so far. Furthermore, Lazio recently checked his name on their attacking shortlist. Maurizio Sarri, newly appointed head of the Roman club, highly values the former Atalanta striker’s profile, seeing him as a serious option to strengthen his attacking side.
“However, according to our information, no formal contact has yet been established between the parties. For its part, Atalanta is keeping a very close eye on the situation.
Atalanta, Lazio eyeing the Dane
“The Bergamo club, which recently lost Mateo Retegui and could see Ademola Lookman leave in the coming weeks, is seriously considering repatriating its former Danish star, whose integration into Ivan Juric’s system would be immediate, given the similarities with Gian Piero Gasperini’s system in which Højlund exploded during his first spell in Bergamo.
“But the feasibility of the deal remains complex. The main obstacle lies in the player’s salary, which is considered too high by Italian standards. One possible outcome would be a loan with an option to buy, accompanied by a substantial payment of the salary by Manchester United. However, this type of deal, often difficult to negotiate between Premier League and Serie A clubs.”
An option to buy linked to the number of matches played or final league position could be among the options included by the Red Devils to ensure a permanent solution.
Rasmus Hojlund needs to re-find his mojo and a return to familiar settings could help him find his way after a disappointing last campaign in England.
Feature image Alex Livesey via Getty Images
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Ayantan Chowdhury
Ayantan has worked for 10 years in the Indian sports media industry, writing for the biggest newspapers and websites but his heart was always set on writing about his favourite club. Currently an editor at The Peoples Person. You can follow him on X: @ayantanc_25
