Manchester United is poised to secure Inter Milan goalkeeper Andre Onana's services, with a £43 million agreement near conclusion. As part of the club's ambitious summer transfer strategy, the successful acquisition of Onana is expected to pave the way for a determined bid for Atalanta's promising striker, Rasmus Hojlund.
Onana, the Cameroonian goalkeeper, is set to embark on a five-year journey with the Red Devils, anticipated to join United's American pre-season tour. The acquisition of Onana responds to manager Erik ten Hag's quest to fill the void left by David De Gea, who exited on a free transfer. With Onana's deal reaching fruition, the club's focus shifts toward bolstering their forward line, with Hojlund in their crosshairs.
Hojlund, a youthful talent from Denmark who notched up nine goals in 32 appearances for Atalanta last season, is viewed as an ideal addition to reinforce the attacking prowess of United's squad. With England striker Marcus Rashford set to extend his tenure at United with a fresh five-year deal, Ten Hag seeks to lighten Rashford's load and has earmarked Hojlund as a primary target.
Atalanta remains adamant on a straight cash deal for the striker, declining players as part of the exchange. The Italian side reportedly values Hojlund at a hefty £86 million, a sum likely to be the opening gambit in negotiations. Even if the eventual fee falls £20 million short, it would still denote a significant investment in the 20-year-old, who is still somewhat untested on the world stage.
United's spending spree, which already includes a £55 million deal for England's midfielder Mason Mount, combined with the imminent Onana signing, is set to nudge the club's outlay close to £100 million. Amid these considerable expenditures, Ten Hag aims to bolster his transfer budget through player sales.
Several players' futures hang in the balance, as Ten Hag considers his options. Dean Henderson, Fred, and Harry Maguire are amongst those potentially departing, while Anthony Elanga may be loaned out. Such squad changes are anticipated to facilitate United's pursuit of Hojlund and maintain financial balance during the ongoing transfer negotiations.
While Onana's imminent arrival appears to be a 'statement signing', the potential acquisition of Hojlund would equally signal a determined investment in the club's future. The united strategy of filling key positions with top talent, shedding surplus players, and nurturing young potential hints at a renewed era of dynamism and competitiveness for the Red Devils.
As Man Utd's pursuit for talent continues, all eyes remain fixed on the summer's transfer developments and the potential transformations within the squad. Despite the price tags and ongoing negotiations, the determination to secure key acquisitions such as Onana and Hojlund underlines a confident approach to the upcoming campaign.
