Manchester United reportedly like Rasmus Hojlund but Danish pundit Jonas Hebo Goldmann does not expect to see the Atalanta striker join the Red Devils during the summer transfer window.
Haaland in the blue corner, Hojlund in the red. The narrative almost writes itself.
It’s not just their surnames, the Scandinavian roots or their history in Austrian football that brings together the two blonde bombers either. Hojliund, like Manchester City’s talismanic number nine, is blessed with searing pace and a fearsome finishing, even if he lacks his near-namesake’s almost cartoonish efficiency.
Hojlund has 13 goals for club and country in 2022/23; capping his full Denmark debut with a hat-trick against near neighbours Finland during the March international break.
Manchester United like Atalanta and Serie A striker Rasmus Hojlund
“There is no doubt that he is (on the radar) of the best clubs in the world. The most likely thing is that he will be sold this summer,” the one-time Arsenal youngster Hebo Goldmann tells TV2 of Hojlund, who is reportedly valued at around £45 million.
“But I think the right thing for Hojlund would be to choose another Italian club that is just one level above Atalanta. Possibly Inter, Juventus, Napoli or AC Milan. It will still be a step up. And, here, he will also avoid ending up as second choice in most places.”
According to the Manchester Evening News, Erik ten Hag is keeping a close eye on the Copenhagen-born 20-year-old; Hojlund a more affordable alternative to the likes of Victor Osimhen, Harry Kane and Goncalo Ramos.
Hebo, however, feels that Man United will still end up bringing a more ‘established’ number nine to Old Trafford.
“Hojlund is a gigantic talent. But I imagine that (Man United) are looking for an even more established striker,” Hebo Goldmann adds. “For example, Osimhen. There are a few who are ahead of Hojlund after all.
“He feels good at Atalanta, where he is in a good place. It will not be a shame for him to stay. Not even if (he ends up playing in) the Europa League after the summer. That way, he can get used to two regular matches a week as well.
“He will also be able to develop further at the club, who are also known for being a selling club. He will probably move on (eventually), even if he stays one more season.”
Hojlund is making no secret of the fact that he is a dyed in the wool, red-blooded Manchester United supporter; Old Trafford legend Cristiano Ronaldo his idol.
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