Under-fire United ace keen to stay and fight for his place despite club’s pursuit of a replacement – Fabrizio Romano

It should come as no surprise if Rasmus Hojlund ends up staying at Manchester United this summer.

Most fans, while scrolling through various social media platforms to view the released photos of United players returning for pre-season on Monday, were quick to notice that Hojlund was missing.

Recently, according to reports relayed by The Peoples Person, Antony, Marcus Rashford, Jadon Sancho, and Alejandro Garnacho were granted an extended break ahead of their pre-season return as they explore potential moves elsewhere.

So, is Hojlund part of this wantaway bandwagon?

Well, for those wondering why the Dane did not show up on Monday, the Manchester Evening News has provided some clarity.

They report: “Those who were called up for international duty at the end of last season, such as Rasmus Højlund and Casemiro, are scheduled to return to Carrington to begin their pre-season preparations on Thursday.”

Does Hojlund still have a future at United?

United were expected to sign a striker this summer, with head coach Ruben Amorim desperately needing a reliable source of goals.

However, despite the apparent fact that the club has a desire to upgrade on him, Hojlund is not keen on leaving.

While on international duty (post-season), he admitted:

“I have a contract [until 2028], so I expect to play for Manchester United [next season].

“I expect to play there, so I’m just getting ready for some summer vacation and then hopefully a good pre-season.”

While some did not take those comments seriously, Fabrizio Romano, discussing the United number nine’s situation, has reiterated that the player wants to stay at Old Trafford.

The transfer guru goes on to suggest the 2023 Ten Hag signing would only consider leaving if he is forced out, with Inter Milan among the clubs interested in him.

🚨🇩🇰 Rasmus Højlund doesn’t want to leave Manchester United this summer, his desire is to stay.

The only possibility for sale is in case United decide to advance in talks and proceed with his exit.

Inter, keen for weeks but deal now in stand-by.

🎥🇮🇹 https://t.co/0dgrRZdOla pic.twitter.com/jZyARuxQBH

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 7, 2025

Why would Hojlund risk staying?

The Dane may be gaining confidence in United’s unsuccessful pursuit of his potential replacements, with top targets such as Viktor Gyokeres and Victor Osimhen opting for rivals.

He may also view the arrivals of Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo as a potential turning point.

With better service (from them), perhaps he believes he can rediscover his goal-scoring form.

INEOS’ striker dilemma

Having missed out on Viktor Gyokeres and Victor Osimhen, and with Hugo Ekitike proving too expensive, there’s now a real chance INEOS shelve their plans for a marquee striker signing.

A stop-gap solution?

Instead, an experienced striker like Ollie Watkins could be recruited as a short-term fix.

Were Hojlund to stay (as he hopes), United may give him the benefit of the doubt, hoping he can develop in the shadows, learn, and ultimately fulfil his potential, making a marquee signing unnecessary.

Featured image Justin Setterfield via Getty Images

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