According to recent reports, Napoli and Manchester United have reached a comprehensive agreement regarding the transfer of former Atalanta forward Rasmus Hojlund. However, the completion of this move is still contingent on the player`s ultimate consent.
Details from The Athletic indicate that the proposed deal involves Hojlund joining Napoli on a loan initially. This loan would convert into a permanent transfer, costing Napoli €44 million, should the Partenopei successfully qualify for the upcoming Champions League season.
The Athletic also notes that the decision now rests with Hojlund, who has yet to provide his definitive approval. Despite this, he appears to be out of Manchester United`s immediate first-team considerations, having been excluded from their last three matchday squads.
Napoli`s Motivation for Hojlund Transfer
Napoli`s pursuit of a new striker stems from the injury sustained by Romelu Lukaku during the team`s last pre-season friendly, a 2-1 win against Olympiacos.
Following the match, the club confirmed Lukaku`s thigh injury, with expectations that he will be out of action for an estimated three to four months.
This situation left newly signed Lorenzo Lucca as the sole fit and available central forward in Antonio Conte`s squad.
While Napoli considered various alternatives, Italian reports suggest that Hojlund is Antonio Conte`s preferred choice to fill the void left by Lukaku.