Amid the buzzing transfer market, Manchester United has turned its gaze towards Rasmus Hojlund, the young Danish sensation who has made a mark in Serie A with Atalanta. The Red Devils have reportedly prepared a £50 million bid for the striker, demonstrating their conviction in his potential, according to The Telegraph.
Restricted by Financial Fair Play (FFP) considerations, United is on a tight leash this summer. However, the club seems confident they can secure Hojlund's services, despite financial constraints and ongoing resolution of the Glazer sale process.
Hojlund, only 20, has exhibited extraordinary talent in his breakthrough season with Atalanta. The Danish prodigy netted nine goals in 32 Serie A matches and flaunted an even more impressive international performance with six goals in five games.
The Old Trafford outfit is in desperate need of a goal-scoring machine following Cristiano Ronaldo's departure and Wout Weghorst's uninspiring loan spell. Their quest for a forward led them to consider options like Randal Kolo Muani, but Hojlund seems to have won the favor of manager Erik ten Hag.
Hojlund's agent, Kees Voss, was spotted at Old Trafford during the final Premier League match of the last season. With Hojlund's talent drawing comparisons to Manchester City's Erling Braut Haaland, a move to United could elevate his profile significantly.
Ten Hag's preference for Hojlund over other targets like England captain Harry Kane and Victor Osimhen is largely based on the affordability of the young Dane under the club's limited budget. Ten Hag aims to distribute the funds available across multiple positions, with the squad already boosted by the £60m addition of Mason Mount and potential acquisition of goalkeeper Andre Onana.
United's bid of £50m for Hojlund, however, hinges on the finalization of the club's takeover process, with Sheikh Jassim and Sir Jim Ratcliffe vying for ownership.
Hojlund's swift ascent to prominence started when he joined Atalanta from Sturm Graz just a year ago. His stellar performance for the Italian club and an impressive hat-trick for Denmark earlier this year have caught the attention of several European clubs.
Hojlund himself has expressed interest in a potential move to United, commenting on the rumors, "It's a huge club, so I must have done something right if it says they want me. My goal is to reach the top shelf, and you can say that Manchester United is. So it will be huge." The unfolding summer transfer window promises a flurry of exciting moves in the striker department, and it remains to be seen where Hojlund will find his home.
