Napoli will permanently sign Rasmus Hojlund from Manchester United after qualifying for the Champions League, triggering a pre-agreed clause in last summer’s loan deal, according to reports. The Serie A side will pay €44 million (£38m) for the Danish striker.
Hojlund joined Napoli on loan at the start of the current season and has impressed, scoring 14 goals in 41 games for Antonio Conte’s team. Napoli are currently second in Serie A and are almost certain to secure Champions League football for next season, activating the obligation for a permanent transfer.
Former Manchester United goalkeeper Peter Schmeichel has expressed his disappointment at the club’s decision to let Hojlund leave, believing the player could have become “absolutely fantastic” at Old Trafford. Schmeichel feels Hojlund was not given a sufficient opportunity to prove himself after joining United from Atalanta for £72m in 2023, suggesting too much pressure was placed on the young forward after a promising debut campaign.
Nicky Butt, another former United player, also criticized the club’s handling of Hojlund, stating it was “wrong” to expect him to carry the team with limited Premier League experience. Butt voiced concerns that a similar situation could arise with current United striker Benjamin Sesko, urging the club to add further attacking options.
The permanent sale of Hojlund will provide funds for Manchester United as they plan a significant summer overhaul, with midfield identified as a key area for investment. However, several other players, including Marcus Rashford and Jadon Sancho, have also been linked with potential departures. The club is currently under the leadership of interim boss Michael Carrick, having secured a Champions League spot for next season with a recent victory over Liverpool.
