Manchester United's summer transfer plans have been thrown into uncertainty as Italian champions Napoli have entered the race for highly-rated striker Rasmus Højlund, according to latest reports from Italy.
Napoli Emerge as Surprise Contenders
The Serie A giants have identified the 20-year-old Danish international as their primary target to replace Victor Osimhen, who is expected to depart this summer. Napoli's interest adds significant competition for Erik ten Hag's side, who had considered Højlund their main striking target.
Italian publication Il Mattino reports that Napoli are prepared to make a substantial offer for the Atalanta forward, complicating Manchester United's pursuit at a crucial stage of the transfer window.
Stalemate Over Valuation
United have already seen their opening bid of £35 million plus £8 million in add-ons rejected by Atalanta, who are standing firm on their £86 million valuation of the young striker. The Italian club's president, Antonio Percassi, has shown no willingness to negotiate below their asking price.
This valuation represents a significant profit for Atalanta, who signed Højlund from Sturm Graz just last summer for approximately £15 million. His impressive debut season in Serie A, netting nine goals, has seen his value skyrocket.
United's Striker Dilemma
The Red Devils are in desperate need of attacking reinforcements after releasing Cristiano Ronaldo in November and seeing Wout Weghorst's loan spell conclude. Anthony Martial's ongoing fitness concerns have further highlighted the need for a reliable number nine.
While United remain interested in Højlund, the club's hierarchy are reportedly reluctant to meet Atalanta's excessive demands, particularly for a player with just one season of top-flight experience.
What This Means for United's Transfer Strategy
- Increased competition: Napoli's interest could force United to act quickly or risk missing their target
- Financial constraints: The Glazers may need to reconsider their budget for the striker position
- Alternative targets: United may be forced to explore other options if the price becomes prohibitive
The coming weeks will prove crucial in determining whether Manchester United can secure their man or if Napoli's late intervention will see the Danish prodigy heading to Serie A instead of the Premier League.
