Rasmus Hojlund Poised for Shock Man Utd Departure as Exit Deal Nears Completion

Rasmus Højlund is allegedly close to departing Manchester United to join Napoli in a deal that offers beneficial financial arrangements for all parties involved.

The Danish striker had previously stated his intention to stay at Old Trafford and compete for his place in the starting lineup, despite receiving limited assurances from Manchester United's hierarchy. However, following the £73 million ($98.3 million) signing of Benjamin Šeško, Højlund's position appears to have changed.

A move back to Serie A for the ex-Atalanta striker is widely anticipated as the next chapter in the 22-year-old's developing career journey. While AC Milan were initially considered frontrunners to secure Højlund's services, Napoli are now believed to be "optimistic" about winning the battle for his signature, as reported by Fabrizio Romano.

Talks intensified following Romelu Lukaku's significant muscle injury, which left the current Serie A titleholders with only Lorenzo Lucca as their primary striker option. While the 6'7" forward brings considerable physical presence, Antonio Conte will likely require additional attacking options during the opening months of the campaign.

The discussions between Højlund and Napoli are reportedly approaching their "concluding phase," with Gazzetta dello Sport suggesting that the Danish forward could receive a substantial salary boost, increasing his current €2.8 million (£2.4 million, $3.3 million) annual earnings to approximately €4.5 million.

Napoli are reportedly offering an initial loan arrangement with a purchase option valued at €45 million, which exceeds Manchester United's original valuation for their struggling forward. Should a permanent transfer materialize, Højlund would be expected to commit to a contract extending until June 2030.

If Højlund completes his move to Naples, he will reunite with a recognizable teammate in Scott McTominay. The former United midfielder and current Serie A Player of the Year has maintained his excellent form, scoring the opening goal of the 2025–26 campaign to help Napoli secure a 2–0 victory against Sassuolo.