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Napoli confident of securing Rasmus Hojlund in permanent deal

Originally posted on HITC | By Dale O'Donnell | Last updated Jan 2, 2026 7:28 AM ET

Rasmus Hojlund has settled in well at Napoli this season, but the striker still needs to finalise a move with the defending Serie A champions.

Ruben Amorim had no plans for Hojlund at the start of the campaign, which led to the decision to send him out on loan.

Benjamin Sesko was brought in from RB Leipzig as his replacement, but he’s managed just two goals so far. That leaves United’s problems in front of goal far from resolved.

Meanwhile, Hojlund has scored nine times for Napoli as they look to defend their title. He also mentioned that a call from Antonio Conte came after United passed on him, and he was eager to work with such an experienced manager.

The striker still has more to prove before this campaign wraps up, but his standing is much improved from where it was a year ago when he was struggling under the weight of expectations at Old Trafford.

Napoli closing in on Rasmus Hojlund signing

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Napoli’s sporting director, Giovanni Manna, is optimistic that the club will soon finalise a deal to keep Hojlund beyond his loan spell.

Hojlund joined Napoli on loan last summer, with an option to buy set at £43 million.

Manna spoke to Corriere dello Sport about the competition they faced for Hojlund’s signature and expressed his satisfaction with how things have turned out.

“We did everything we could to sign him,” Manna said.

“There were other big clubs interested, but his desire to join us made the difference.”

He added: “We had no doubts. Rasmus is important not just for his numbers but also for how he fits into the coach’s plans. That really stands out.”

The agreement between Napoli and Manchester United includes an option that becomes an obligation if Napoli qualify for the Champions League.

Manna also noted: “The player sees himself as part of Napoli already, and so do we. The transfer feels like a matter of time.”

Napoli are set to face Lazio this Sunday in Serie A. Hojlund will be looking to hit double figures for the season, currently sitting on nine goals for the campaign.

Napoli sit third in Serie A, with Inter Milan leading the pack. Antonio Conte’s side is two points clear after 16 matches played.

This article first appeared on HITC and was syndicated with permission.

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