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22-year-old keen to swap Manchester United struggles for SSC Napoli opportunity
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Rasmus Højlund is keen to move from Manchester United to SSC Napoli

Since Rúben Amorim took over in November, Manchester United have struggled to find their footing. Rather than halting the decline, the 2024/25 season spiraled into one of the worst in the club’s history: a dismal 16th-place finish in the Premier League, the lowest since 1974, and a Europa League final defeat to Tottenham in a lifeless affair in Bilbao.

The mood surrounding the club is one of widespread frustration. Players seem demotivated, the fans disillusioned, and the leadership uncertain. At the centre of this underwhelming narrative stands Rasmus Højlund, once heralded as a long-term solution, now emblematic of a misfiring attack.

The latest twist, as reported by Gazzetta dello Sport, is that Napoli have officially inquired about signing Højlund on a permanent basis. Initial discussions with the striker’s camp have reportedly gone well, with the 22-year-old Dane said to be open to a return to Serie A. This comes in contrast to earlier reports suggesting that Højlund intended to stay and fight for his place at United this summer.

After a disappointing campaign, just four goals in 34 league appearances, and amid growing talk of an attacking shake-up under Rúben Amorim, Rasmus Højlund’s departure from Manchester United appears increasingly plausible. The Danish striker, brought in from Atalanta for £72 million in 2023, has struggled to justify the hefty price tag, with his form dipping sharply over the season.

According to The Telegraph, Inter Milan are preparing a move of their own, although their offer would involve a loan deal with an option to buy, a structure United are hesitant to entertain. Napoli, however, might hold the upper hand. Flush with funds following Khvicha Kvaratskhelia’s transfer to PSG, the Italian club could offer a straightforward permanent deal, and potentially more immediate relief to United’s financial balancing act.

From an editorial perspective, the potential transfer poses a deeper dilemma. Should United offload Højlund for cash, or should they negotiate a swap involving Napoli’s Victor Osimhen? On paper, the latter seems tempting. Osimhen brings goals, proven Serie A pedigree, and an established profile that could transform United’s toothless front line.

The potential departure of Rasmus Højlund could act as a catalyst for Manchester United’s attacking overhaul. If Napoli present a compelling offer, say over £50 million, it could provide the financial flexibility needed to secure more immediate reinforcements up front.

Yet, parting ways with a 22-year-old after just two seasons, one of which showed signs of promise, could backfire if the Dane flourishes upon returning to Serie A. Is it a risk worth taking? Perhaps, but only if Rúben Amorim has a clear and coherent plan in place. Otherwise, United risk repeating the same transfer missteps that have plagued recent years. Poor decisions now would only reinforce the perception of a club drifting without direction.

This article first appeared on We All Follow United and was syndicated with permission.

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