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Manchester United ready to sell underperforming star for €45 million; set for significant loss

Originally posted on We All Follow United
By Rohit Sarkar | Last updated Jun 16, 2025 9:45 AM ET

Manchester United are ready to sell Rasmus Højlund for €45 million

Manchester United are back in the Italian headlines, with Rasmus Højlund once again taking centre stage. The Danish striker is reportedly Inter Milan’s top target to bolster their frontline, according to La Gazzetta dello Sport, as relayed by Sportwitness. A few days ago, reports suggested Højlund had already given the green light for a move to the Italian giants. While talks appeared to go quiet, interest has now reignited, coinciding with Inter’s involvement in the Club World Cup in the United States, where key figures within the club are pushing ahead with strategic moves.

United are said to value Højlund at €45 million and favour a direct sale this summer. With his contract running until 2030, the Premier League side have the upper hand in negotiations. Inter, however, are reportedly exploring a loan deal with an obligation to buy, frontloaded by a significant initial payment. The player himself is understood to be keen on donning the Nerazzurri colours, which adds a layer of leverage to the Italian club’s pursuit.

Meanwhile, Corriere dello Sport, also via Sportwitness, has indicated that United are increasingly leaning towards making Joshua Zirkzee their main striker next season. However, despite the growing buzz, there is still no agreement on the table for either player.

The situation presents a delicate decision for United. Holding firm on a £45 million valuation ensures they can quickly reinvest in the squad, which is crucial in a summer of transition. But if no clubs are willing to meet that price, Inter could eventually get their way, especially if talks continue into late July. Conversely, retaining Højlund without a concrete role for him risks stagnation, both for the player and the club.

Højlund’s potential exit would undeniably dent United’s attacking options, particularly if no suitable successor is secured. The squad cannot afford another season of plug-and-play improvisation. Should Zirkzee fail to deliver and Højlund flourish in Italy, the board will face renewed scrutiny.

Selling the Dane at a discount or loaning him out without guarantee of a permanent move risks mortgaging the future. Yet keeping him on the bench makes little strategic sense. If Inter’s proposal, including a loan with an obligation to buy and a solid up-front fee, is genuine, it might be the lesser evil. However, based on last season’s performances, United appear ready to cut ties and move on.

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

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