The club’s No 9 has faced serious criticism for his output and performance this season
Manchester United could part ways with embattled young striker Rasmus Hojlund two years after his high-profile arrival from Atalanta. The club are open to selling both senior and young players this summer, as they begin the process of an extensive rebuild under Ruben Amorim.
United initially splashed up to £72 million on Hojlund in the summer of 2023, betting on his raw potential and athletic profile to lead their attacking line for years to come. The striker showed flashes of promise last season, particularly in Europe, but also in England where he set a record as the youngest-ever player to score in six successive Premier League games.
However, his overall output has fallen woefully short of expectations this season, scoring 10 goals in 51 appearances, with only four of those in the Premier League. The numbers and his overall movement and positioning in front of goal have raised concerns among fans and pundits.
Amorim said in January that the Dane’s struggles were “more a team problem than a Rasmus problem”, but it still hasn’t prevented United from making serious moves to sign Ipswich striker Liam Delap.
As the summer transfer window nears, Serie A has emerged as a potential escape route for Hojlund. Juventus are understood to be monitoring the player closely. While not at the top of their wish list – with Napoli’s Victor Osimhen the preferred option, according to La Gazzetta dello Sport – the Dane’s comparatively modest wage demands and now lower asking price could make him an attractive backup plan.
Juventus’ final stance may depend on their Champions League qualification and how much they can stretch their budget. Osimhen would command a substantial transfer fee that could force the Turin club to look elsewhere. Hojlund, by contrast, presents a more financially viable option, especially given his familiarity with Serie A from his Atalanta stint.
With United ready to go as far as selling even players like Alejandro Garnacho, Kobbie Mainoo, and Bruno Fernandes, there is no reason why Hojlund will not be offloaded if the right offer is presented to the club.