In the world of football, the transfer market is a whirlwind of speculation, negotiation, and anticipation. One name that has been making the rounds recently is Rasmus Hojlund, a 20-year-old Danish striker currently playing for Atalanta. The young forward has been linked with a move to Manchester United, and recent developments suggest that a deal could be on the horizon.
Manchester United's search for a new striker has been a topic of discussion since the departure of Cristiano Ronaldo prior to the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. The void left by the Portuguese superstar has been difficult to fill, with Wout Weghorst's short loan spell at the end of last season failing to impress. The Dutch international managed only two goals in 31 appearances for United, leaving the Red Devils in need of a reliable goal scorer.
The club's search led them to Harry Kane, England's captain and Tottenham's forward. However, Kane's interest in a move to Bayern Munich has shifted United's focus towards Hojlund, who has been described as a "goal machine" by a former opponent.
Manchester United are preparing their opening bid for Rasmus Højlund!
Told personal terms are 100% agreed. He wants United.
Atalanta told United they don’t want 3 players offered in the deal after initial talks.
Asking price around €65/70m.
Next step: official bid. pic.twitter.com/HsjtJU8FzA — Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 18, 2023
Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano has provided an update on United's pursuit of Hojlund, stating that the club is "preparing their opening bid" for the Atalanta striker. The Serie A club reportedly values Hojlund at around £60 million. Initial talks between the two sides have taken place, with Atalanta rejecting an offer of three players heading in the opposite direction. However, personal terms are already "100% agreed", and Hojlund "wants United", according to Romano.
Adding to the excitement, Andre Onana, who is set to join Manchester United from Inter Milan, has hinted at his desire for Hojlund to join him at Old Trafford. Onana liked an Instagram post featuring Hojlund in a United kit, further fueling speculation about the Dane's potential move.
Hojlund has an impressive track record, having scored 12 goals in 21 appearances for Strum Graz in Austria before netting 10 in 34 games in Italy with Atalanta. He has also made a name for himself on the international scene, recording six goals in six caps - all of which came in his last four games during qualifying matches for Euro 2024. His performances have drawn comparisons with Manchester City's Erling Haaland.
As Manchester United prepares to submit their official bid for Hojlund, fans and players alike are eagerly anticipating the potential arrival of the young Danish striker. If the deal goes through, it could mark a significant step in United's quest to bolster their attacking options and fill the void left by Ronaldo's departure.
