Højlundâs Future in Doubt as Manchester United Open to Summer Exit
Manchester United striker Rasmus Højlund may be heading for the Old Trafford exit this summer, with growing reports suggesting a return to Serie A is on the cards. While the Danish forward is keen to stay and prove himself in England, his agent is reportedly exploring opportunities back in Italy â and United seem willing to listen if the price is right.
Agent Actively Pushing for Serie A Return
Despite publicly expressing a desire to remain at Manchester United, Højlund may not have the final say. According to Caught Offside, his agent believes a move back to Italy would reignite the 21-year-oldâs career and is currently in talks with Serie A clubs, including AC Milan and AS Roma.
While Milan have already made inquiries about a potential deal, Roma are reportedly interested in a loan with an option to buy â a structure United are unwilling to consider. Instead, the Premier League club is demanding a permanent transfer, setting the asking price at âŹ45 million (around ÂŁ39 million).
A Tough Debut Season at Old Trafford
Højlundâs debut season in England was far from smooth. United finished among the lowest-scoring sides in the Premier League, and the striker, along with Joshua Zirkzee, came under heavy criticism for their underwhelming performances. Together, they managed just seven league goals.
Former Red Devils midfielder Gordon Strachan empathized with Højlund, admitting the young striker appeared overwhelmed by the pressure of playing for a club of Unitedâs magnitude.
âI really do feel sorry for Rasmus Højlund⌠everything seems to be too much for him,â Strachan said. âA permanent move away could be what he needs to regain confidence and get back on track.â
United Eyeing Ollie Watkins as Potential Replacement
Should Højlund depart, United already have a contingency plan. Sources indicate that Aston Villaâs Ollie Watkins has emerged as a prime transfer target for the Red Devils. The England international enjoyed a standout season and could offer a more clinical and consistent presence up front â something United desperately lacked last term.
A move for Watkins would signal a clear intent by United to bolster their attack with proven Premier League talent, especially as manager Ruben Amorim looks to add firepower before the transfer window closes.
The Final Word: United at a Crossroads
While Rasmus Højlund still harbors hopes of staying in Manchester, the clubâs openness to a sale â coupled with pressure from his agent and interest from Serie A giants â makes his future increasingly uncertain. If United can secure a sizable fee and land Ollie Watkins, it may prove to be a mutually beneficial decision for all parties involved.
