Manchester United are still working on several exits before Monday’s deadline, but they can already spot the finish line in the Rasmus Hojlund affair.
The Dane failed to convince Ruben Amorim last season. Despite playing as a regular starter, he only scored 10 goals across all competitions, and four in the Premier League. The Portuguese manager continued to back the 22-year-old amidst the lack of alternatives, but the situation immediately changed upon the arrival of Benjamin Sesko.
Since the Slovenian first set foot in Carrington, Hojlund hasn’t featured in any fixture for Man Utd, with Amorim making it abundantly clear that he must find himself a new club.
Napoli identified Hojlund as Lukaku’s replacement
As they say, one man’s misfortune is another man’s opportunity, and this was exactly the case when Romelu Lukaku suffered a serious injury earlier this month, forcing Napoli to return to the market, and subsequently identifying Hojlund as their primary target.
The negotiations between the two clubs have been fruitful thus far, and even Scott McTominay is said to have played his part as a ‘secret agent’, convincing Hojlund to reunite with him in Southern Italy.
According to Sky Sport Italia journalist Gianluca Di Marzio, Man United and Napoli have already found an agreement on the formula and the figures.
Man United & Napoli shook hands for Rasmus Hojlund
The Denmark international will sign for the Serie A champions on loan for €6 million, with an option to buy that would turn into an obligation in case of Champions League qualification. The player’s purchase would cost Napoli another €44 million, raising the total to €50 million (circa £43 million).
Di Marzio adds that there are a few remaining details to sort out in the accord between the player’s agent and the Partenopei, including commissions, but he believes that if all goes according to plan, then the transfer could be finalised ‘tonight’ (Saturday).
This would be a timely boost for Man United who are still hoping to bring in a new goalkeeper, as they continue to negotiate a deal for Senne Lammens. It also remains to be seen if they’ll be able to bolster their midfield in the next 48 hours or so, especially if Kobbie Mainoo insists on embarking on a loan experience.
