In a dramatic twist to the summer transfer window, Manchester United's star striker Rasmus Hojlund has emerged as the number one target for Italian giants Napoli, setting the stage for a potential blockbuster saga.
The Mirror can exclusively reveal that Napoli's formidable president, Aurelio De Laurentiis, is preparing an audacious £85 million move to prise the Danish international away from Old Trafford after just a single season.
Napoli's New Era Under Conte
With Antonio Conte now at the helm, Napoli are embarking on an ambitious new project and view the 21-year-old Hojlund as the cornerstone of their attack. The club is desperate to make a marquee signing to ignite their Scudetto ambitions and replace the outgoing Victor Osimhen.
Hojlund, who arrived at United for a hefty £72 million from Atalanta, endured a challenging start but finished the Premier League season with a promising flourish, netting ten goals. His raw pace, physical presence, and immense potential have clearly made a significant impression in Naples.
Manchester United's Stance
This approach presents a serious dilemma for the Red Devils' hierarchy. While the club has no active desire to sell their young asset, the financial realities of Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR) cannot be ignored. A potential £13 million profit on their initial investment would provide crucial financial breathing room for incoming football director Dan Ashworth and manager Erik ten Hag to reinforce other areas of the squad.
However, the prospect of selling a player bought for the long term after a single season would be a significant PR setback and leave a gaping hole in the centre-forward position.
A Summer Transfer Saga in the Making
All eyes are now on the player's stance. Hojlund has spoken publicly about his happiness at Manchester United and his desire to build on his late-season form. Yet, the lure of being the undisputed main man in a Conte-led project in Serie A could be a tantalising proposition.
This development promises to be one of the most captivating transfer narratives of the summer. Napoli's determination, United's financial considerations, and the player's own ambitions will collide, making the future of Rasmus Hojlund anything but certain.
