Manchester United are preparing to make their first official bid for Atalanta BC forward Rasmus Hojlund, according to reports.
Erik ten Hag has been looking for a new number nine since the end of last season in an attempt to remedy the team’s troubles in that area.
Although Marcus Rashford had his best season in a United shirt in 2022-23, Ten Hag is looking for options with Anthony Martial poised to leave Old Trafford.
However, United have made little headway in that regard, with the likes of Harry Kane and Victor Osimhen proving too pricey, leading to increased interest in Hojlund.
Hojlund has nine goals and four assists in 32 Serie A games last season, but the 20-year-old remains one of the world’s most highly regarded talents.
Manchester United to make a bid for Rasmus Hojlund very soon
As a result, unless they are provided with an offer they cannot refuse, Atalanta have little interest in cashing in on the Denmark international.
The Italian club supposedly values Hojlund at around €70 million (£60.1 million), a figure that could conceivably rise over time or if other clubs enter the race.
According to transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano on Twitter, Paris Saint-Germain are still in talks with Hojlund’s representative about a possible move to Parc des Princes.
As per Romano, this is likely to lead to United making their first formal offer in the coming days in order to maintain their position as the frontrunners for his signature.
United are not in a position to spend freely for the remainder of the summer, since the club is already facing FFP concerns before adding to their roster.
Andre Onana, the custodian, has joined midfielder Mason Mount at the Theatre of Dreams for a fee in excess of £100 million.
Nonetheless, obtaining a new frontman remains critical, and United are willing to focus their efforts on bringing in Hojlund on a long-term contract.
Despite having been at the Gewiss Stadium for less than a year, the former Copenhagen prodigy is under contract through the conclusion of the 2026-27 season, putting Atalanta in a strong position to retain his services.
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