Manchester United have received a significant boost to their January transfer plans, with Napoli's sporting director declaring the permanent sale of striker Rasmus Hojlund a virtual certainty.
Napoli Chief Confirms Deal is Imminent
Giovanni Manna, Napoli's sporting director, has stated that securing Rasmus Hojlund on a full-time basis is now considered a 'formality'. The Danish forward joined the Serie A champions on loan last summer after falling out of favour at Old Trafford.
Hojlund's original move to Manchester United in 2023 cost the club £72 million, but he managed just four Premier League goals last season. His path was further blocked by the summer arrivals of Benjamin Sesko, Matheus Cunha, and Bryan Mbeumo.
Hojlund Finds Form in Italy
Since his switch to Naples, the 22-year-old has rediscovered his scoring touch, netting nine times in 20 appearances across all competitions. He also played a key role in helping Antonio Conte's side lift the Super Cup in December.
The loan agreement included an option to buy for approximately £38 million, with an obligation to make the transfer permanent if certain conditions are met. One of the primary triggers is believed to be Napoli securing qualification for the Champions League.
'We did everything we could to sign him,' Manna told Corriere dello Sport. 'His will was crucial... Rasmus is decisive. There’s an option to buy and an obligation to buy if we qualify for the Champions League. The player considers himself a Napoli player, and the same goes for us.'
Funds Freed for United's Rebuild
Hojlund's anticipated departure is welcome news for Manchester United as manager Ruben Amorim looks to reshape his squad. The £38 million fee will provide valuable funds for the club's ongoing rebuild.
United are reportedly targeting attacking reinforcements this month, with a new arrival likely to allow Joshua Zirkzee to depart. The Dutch striker, who scored in United's 1-1 draw with Wolves on the final day of 2025, is keen on more playing time to boost his World Cup hopes.
Reports suggest Zirkzee has already approved a move to Serie A side Roma. The proposed deal is an initial loan with an obligation to buy for €40 million, potentially concluded by mid-January.
Reflecting on his summer exit, Hojlund said his move to Napoli was the 'right step'. 'Manchester United had let me know that I wasn’t in their plans,' he explained. 'When a coach like [Antonio] Conte calls you, you just have to say yes.'
