Man United transfer news: After Casemiro, second Red Devils exit already sealed?

Napoli are set to make Rasmus Højlund's loan move permanent this summer, with the Italian champions prepared to pay Manchester United £38m (€44m) to secure the striker on a long-term contract until 2030.

The Danish international has not scored since a Serie A clash against Lecce in mid-March, but his recent drought has done nothing to dent Antonio Conte's faith in the 23-year-old. Napoli sporting director Giovanni Manna was unequivocal on the matter.

“There are no doubts. Rasmus will stay here,” Manna confirmed. “We have an obligation to buy from Manchester United in case of Champions League access — but he is in our plans regardless of this condition.”

Conte keeps faith in Rasmus Højlund despite drought

According to Corriere del Mezzogiorno, Napoli's hierarchy have decided to activate the purchase option regardless of any qualification considerations, with Conte viewing Højlund as a cornerstone of his project at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona.

Even a high-profile penalty miss for Denmark in the World Cup play-offs has not altered the club's thinking. The former Atalanta man's overall numbers this term remain solid — 14 goals and six assists across all competitions — a return made all the more impressive by the prolonged absences of creative supports Kevin De Bruyne and David Neres through injury.

With the Højlund deal all but settled, Napoli are turning their attention to cover in the striking position. The club are reluctant to spend further funds on a senior signing and are instead looking at an internal solution.

Giovane is emerging as the primary candidate to serve as Højlund's deputy next season. Although he has predominantly been used in wide areas, Napoli's coaching staff believe his physical profile and finishing ability make him well suited to a central role — a shift that would allow the club to redirect resources elsewhere.

End of the road at Old Trafford

Højlund joined Manchester United from Atalanta in the summer of 2023 and made 95 appearances in all competitions over two seasons, scoring 26 goals and adding six assists. He was part of the side that won the FA Cup in 2023-24 before making the move to Naples on loan last summer, where he also won the Supercoppa Italiana.

The deal, expected to be finalised by the end of June, would represent a significant boost to Manchester United's transfer budget ahead of what promises to be a substantial summer overhaul under incoming manager Michael Carrick.