Manchester United have reportedly held talks with Ramus Højlund’s representatives in recent days to discuss his future ahead of next season.
One of Manchester United’s key problems last season was their lack of reliable goal scorers, with Rasmus Højlund struggling to lead the attack effectively.
Signed from Atalanta in the summer of 2023, Højlund was immediately thrust into the role of first-choice striker, largely due to Anthony Martial’s injury issues.
Despite scoring 16 goals in all competitions during his debut season, many United supporters had hoped to see the Danish forward take a step forward this year. Instead, his form declined significantly under Ruben Amorim.
Højlund endured several difficult spells throughout the campaign, including a particularly poor run at the end of the season, casting serious doubt over his future at Old Trafford.
United hold talks with Højlund’s representatives
There has been reported interest in Højlund from Italy so far this summer and particularly from Inter Milan, who have asked about the details behind a potential move.
However, the player himself came out last week and claimed that he is expecting to remain at Old Trafford next season despite his difficulties.
This could of course change if United were to tell Højlund that he’s no longer in their plans, and the 22-year-old’s agents have been in contact with the club in recent days.
A report from ESPN has revealed that Højlund’s representatives had a meeting with United’s executives last week to speak about their plans for the Danish forward.
It was explained that United communicated to the player’s camp that they have still not made their decision on where his future will be next season, with that depending heavily on whether a new striker is signed this summer.
United are not ruling out any possibility for the player, with a loan or sale being considered as well as the chance of him staying at the club next term.
Højlund loan exit would not make sense
United are expected to sign a striker this summer but it still feels like a loan exit for Højlund doesn’t make too much sense at the moment.
His biggest problem at Old Trafford has been due to him being the main striker and not being able to come out of the limelight or learn from a more experienced goalscorer.
It would seem strange to loan him out as soon as that becomes a possibility. He would still get enough game-time as a backup striker but wouldn’t have the pressure that he’s previously had.
On the other hand, if a permanent offer comes in for the Dane it would certainly be something United consider as they look to raise funds for more signings.
Keeping or selling Højlund makes sense for different reasons but a loan exit wouldn’t be the best decision for the club or player.
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