Manchester United have reportedly made a massive transfer U-turn on Rasmus Hojlund as they press ahead with their pursuit of an in-demand striker.
Hojlund facing uncertain future at United
There remains a chance that Hojlund will leave United this summer, with the club looking to offload him after another difficult season.
Hojlund has struggled since joining United from Atalanta in the summer of 2023 for a £72m fee. He struggled to adapt to English football in his maiden campaign but declined even further last term, only netting four Premier League goals.
But frustrations with him go far beyond his poor numbers in front of goal. Hojlund has found it hard to grasp the basics of being a striker, including holding up the ball, bringing others into play and movements into good areas to maximise his chances of scoring.
There is a general consensus that he is not the man to take the club forward and he needs to be sold or assume a bit-part role as he looks to refine his game.
A lot of interest in Hojlund has come from Italy, with the likes of Inter Milan, Napoli and Juventus all mentioned to be eyeing him. However, the names clubs have been keen on a loan deal while United’s preference is for a permanent parting of ways.
Recently, a report covered by The Peoples Person claimed that United would be willing to accept a loan arrangement, only if it included an obligation to buy Hojlund at the end of it.
However, a fresh update provided by Corriere dello Sport has indicated that the Red Devils have had a change of heart and could sanction a loan exit with the option to buy.
Hojlund could head out on loan
According to CDS, “United appear open to loaning Hojlund with a €50 million buy option after having bought him for €80 million from Atalanta in 2023.”
“With Cunha and Mbeumo now signed, the Danish striker’s place at United is effectively gone.”
It’s understood that Hojlund to Juventus could become serious if the Serie A outfit fail to agree a deal with Paris Saint-Germain for Randal Kolo Muani.
PSG are reluctant to meet PSG’s demands for Kolo Muani and now, the situation has become even more complicated because of the likes of United and Newcastle turning their attention towards the Frenchman.
United step up Kolo Muani chase
CDS explain that United are one of the Premier League clubs “dangerously advancing” for Kolo Muani.
“Ten days ago, Chelsea made an inquiry, and in recent hours, Manchester United and Newcastle have also come knocking at the door of PSG, who own the player’s rights.”
“United are looking for a number nine as they remain unconvinced by Hojlund, who has now popped up on Juve’s radar.”
“The refusal of Ekitike, who joined Liverpool for £69 million (about €80 million) plus another €10 million in bonuses, has fueled the Red Devils’ interest in Kolo Muani, in addition to Juventus.”
Kolo Muani previously made it clear in public that his wish is to extend his stay with Juventus after a successful loan spell, but that wish may not materialise if the Old Lady don’t reach an agreement with PSG.
Featured image Matt McNulty via Getty Images
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Derick Kinoti
Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the game extensively for many years. He is a keen analyst with expertise in SEO and journalism standards. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!
