Fabrizio Romano has explained that Manchester United see Rasmus Højlund’s possible move to Napoli as a perfect transfer to sanction this summer.
Rasmus Højlund’s stay at Manchester United is increasingly in doubt following the arrival of Benjamin Šeško from RB Leipzig.
Højlund has struggled to establish himself as a consistent scorer at Old Trafford, managing 26 goals in 95 appearances under Erik ten Hag, Ruud van Nistelrooy, and Rúben Amorim.
Although he has shown flashes of promise, long spells without goals have been a recurring issue, leading Amorim to target a forward of the same age but with more proven top-level experience.
Signed for £72 million in 2023, the Danish striker has failed to justify his price tag, and United are now looking to offload him this summer.
Højlund’s Napoli move is seen as perfect by United
Napoli are pushing hard to sign Højlund, and United see a loan with an obligation to buy as the “perfect solution” to resolve the striker’s future, according to Fabrizio Romano. The Italian club have entered the race strongly and are in direct talks with both United and the player.
While AC Milan had shown interest for several weeks, their focus has now shifted to completing the Victor Boniface deal, according to the Italian transfer expert.
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Romano explained that this has opened the door for Napoli to take the lead, with fresh contacts held on Friday described as positive.
Napoli are proposing a loan move that would become a guaranteed permanent transfer, which United view as an ideal outcome for all parties involved.
From United’s perspective, this structure allows them to secure a long-term exit while balancing financial planning.
One step remains to complete Højlund’s move
While Romano does not mention a fee, the fact United seem happy to sanction the deal suggests that Napoli have indicated that they are willing to agree to what is being asked.
Continuing, the Italian journalist explained that for Højlund, clarity is the key. Despite his love for United, the striker does not want to be in limbo or repeat a situation similar to Jadon Sancho, where players return from loan only to be pushed out again.
If United and manager Amorim no longer fully trust him, Højlund’s camp have made it clear he prefers a move that offers long-term belief and commitment. A loan with an obligation to buy, rather than an option, would give him the confidence that he is wanted and part of a new club’s long-term vision.
With Napoli and United seemingly on the same page regarding the transfer fee and structure, the only step remaining is for Højlund to accept Napoli’s proposal.
Make sure to follow UtdDistrict on X, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok to never miss out on any of our Manchester United content. Our podcast, What the Devil?, is streamed live every Thursday at 12:30 pm (BST) on the United View YouTube channel.