Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images

Manchester United ready to cut their losses on Antonio Conte favourite; £38 million January deal eyed

Originally posted on We All Follow United
By Rohit Sarkar | Last updated Oct 27, 2025 9:21 PM ET

Manchester United could let Napoli sign Rasmus Hojlund for just £38m

Manchester United keep changing their approach to the forward line every transfer window. The latest twist involves Rasmus Hojlund. The young Dane, once seen as a cornerstone of the club’s long-term rebuild, now thrives in Italy. Reports from the Mirror say that Napoli, under Antonio Conte, plans to sign him permanently for around £38 million in January.

That figure looks modest for a striker who has found his confidence again. The Red Devils sent Hojlund on loan to make room for new arrivals like Benjamin Sesko, Matheus Cunha, and Bryan Mbeumo. They hoped fresh energy would change their attack.

In Naples, the 21-year-old has scored four goals in his first six matches. He has built a strong partnership with the former Manchester City playmaker Kevin De Bruyne. Conte’s clear system gives Hojlund the freedom he never truly had at Old Trafford. The move helps both sides for now.

A permanent deal could mark a turning point in United’s rebuild. The club expects Napoli to complete the signing, which could open the door for further squad changes. Meanwhile, this move might also make Manchester United reconsider their plan to spend big on Brighton star Carlos Baleba. That uncertainty adds another layer to their January plans.

A deal that tells a bigger story

The £38 million fee looks like a bargain because Hojlund has adapted quickly and made a strong impact in Serie A. At Manchester United, he faced problems under Erik ten Hag and Ruben Amorim’s inconsistent tactics. The Dane often dropped too deep instead of playing to his strength inside the box.

In contrast, Conte’s Napoli uses him as a direct finisher. The team creates chances for him through sharp movement and steady support from De Bruyne and Scott McTominay, who has improved in Italy. Freed from the pressure, Hojlund now shows why United once believed in him. His goals-per-90-minute rate has doubled since moving to Italy. The numbers show how structure and belief can transform form.

Meanwhile, Manchester United will gain financial relief from this potential sale. Also, Joshua Zirkzee wants more minutes and plans to leave in January. The club can save on wages and explore options like Jean-Philippe Mateta.

The Crystal Palace striker scored 14 league goals last season and should fit Rúben Amorim’s attacking plan. At 28, Mateta enters his peak years and can fill the gap until younger players like Chido Obi rise through the ranks. This looks like the right time for United to reset. They must stop dwelling on what Hojlund couldn’t do and focus on what their next striker must bring.

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

More must-reads: