Napoli could shake up the Italian transfer market by targeting Manchester United striker Rasmus Hojlund. Under Antonio Conte, the Serie A side are seeking an immediate replacement for Romelu Lukaku, who will miss around three months following a thigh injury sustained during pre-season.
The move could also reunite Hojlund with Scott McTominay, now at Napoli and already a standout since joining. The Danish striker had previously been considered by the club at the start of the European summer, but plans changed after Napoli agreed a €35m (£30m) loan-to-buy deal for Lorenzo Lucca from Udinese. Lukaku’s injury has now brought Hojlund back to the top of Napoli’s list.
Negotiations and Milan interest
According to Corriere dello Sport, Manchester United could allow the 22-year-old to leave on loan, with a fee of €5–6 million (£4.3–5.2 million) and a purchase option set between €35–40 million (£30–34.5 million). The structure would mirror the Lucca deal, though with added risk given Hojlund’s challenging time at Old Trafford.
Signed in 2023 following an impressive spell at Atalanta, Hojlund has yet to justify United’s £72 million outlay, scoring just 10 goals in 52 appearances last season. He remains under contract until 2028, with an option to extend for a further year.
Milan are also monitoring the situation closely. Sporting director Igli Tare confirmed to Sportmediaset that the Rossoneri see Hojlund as a potential key addition as the transfer window enters its final stretch.
Return to Serie A could revive Hojlund’s career
Despite criticism in England, Hojlund is well-acquainted with Italian football, having enjoyed his best form at Atalanta, which earned him a move to Manchester United. Both Napoli and Milan view his Serie A experience as an advantage, believing he can rediscover his scoring touch in a league where he has already proven himself.
The competition between Napoli and Milan is expected to intensify in the coming days, with both clubs looking to convince United to sanction a move. For Hojlund, a return to Italy could be crucial in regaining confidence and fulfilling the potential that made him one of Europe’s most promising young forwards.
This article was originally published on Trivela.
