Following an agreement to sign Mason Mount for a robust £60m, Manchester United shows no sign of slowing down its squad bolstering efforts. The Red Devils are now reportedly turning their focus toward Rasmus Hojlund, a promising young forward from Atalanta in the Serie A.
According to Corriere Dello Sport, United's initial offer of €35m (£30m) for Hojlund was declined, with Atalanta calling for a higher bid of €45m plus €12m in bonuses (£39m + £10m). It remains to be seen if Erik ten Hag's squad will make another pitch for the 20-year-old Norwegian.
Hojlund, frequently likened to Erling Haaland, would provide a powerful addition to the Red Devils' front line. His commendable 16-goal season, including nine in Serie A, could inject some youthful vibrancy into United's ranks.
Manchester United are continuing talks with Atalanta over striker Rasmus Hojlund.
United suffered a setback in their pursuit of the Danish international last month after the Italian outfit slapped a club record £86m transfer fee on the youngster. pic.twitter.com/PhT3kvanWu — Bliss ️ (@arinzechukwuab1) July 2, 2023
The club has had less than stellar luck with aging forwards, like Edinson Cavani, Radamel Falcao, Zlatan Ibrahimovic, and Cristiano Ronaldo. A change in approach, targeting emerging talents like Hojlund, coupled with the acquisition of Mount, could mark a new era for United.
Mount's past performance records speak for themselves. Despite a relatively underwhelming contribution of nine goals last season, the England international had an impressive run in the 2021/22 season, scoring 13 goals and providing 16 assists across 53 matches. Such statistics could prove beneficial for the young Hojlund, providing a strong supporting cast.
This player pairing might be just what United needs. Despite securing a top-four finish, the team scored the least number of goals (58) among the top six teams last season, underlining the need for Hojlund and Mount's goal-scoring prowess.
Meanwhile, United's pursuit of Hojlund has been met with challenges. Atalanta set a hefty £86m transfer fee for the Danish international, prompting United to consider sending a player they acquired from Atalanta just two years ago to sweeten the deal. Despite these hiccups, United appears determined to secure Hojlund's signature as part of their forward-line strengthening plans.
United's interest in Hojlund could signal a shift in their recruitment strategy. Having been linked previously with high-value targets like Tottenham's Harry Kane and Napoli's Victor Osimhen, a move for Hojlund suggests a keen focus on emerging talent and a forward-thinking investment strategy.
The football world awaits Manchester United's next move, with potential changes suggesting a reinvigoration of the team's roster.
