Manchester United are preparing to reshape their squad this summer by placing three Erik ten Hag signings on the transfer list, with Rasmus Hojlund among the notable names available for around £34.5 million. The Danish striker’s struggles since his high-profile £64 million move from Atalanta have prompted United’s hierarchy to consider parting ways.
Hojlund’s arrival was met with optimism after his 10-goal haul in Serie A during the 2022/23 season, but the transition to the Premier League has been anything but smooth. The 22-year-old failed to find the net in his first 14 league outings and ended last season with just four goals across 32 appearances. That underwhelming output contributed to a rare low point for United, who finished a disappointing 15th in the league.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe, co-owner of the club, appears ready to back a squad overhaul, eyeing a summer sale of Hojlund. Italian clubs, including Inter Milan, have shown interest, with the Nerazzurri reportedly exploring a loan deal featuring a conditional obligation to buy. However, Manchester United are pushing for a permanent transfer rather than a temporary arrangement.
Reports from Interlive.it confirm that Hojlund has been officially placed on United’s transfer list, despite the striker’s expressed desire to stay and prove himself. The narrative suggests that while Hojlund wants to remain, the club’s strategic direction means he is expendable.
Alongside Hojlund, Joshua Zirkzee and Andre Onana, both Ten Hag acquisitions, are also available for transfer. Ruben Amorim, the current United manager, is said to be keen on rebuilding the squad with fresh talent and sees these players as assets that no longer fit into his plans.
Inter Milan’s pursuit of Hojlund has stalled, partly due to their decision to retain Pio Esposito, a promising talent who impressed during the Club World Cup despite limited minutes. This development has made Inter hesitant to move forward aggressively with the Danish striker’s signing.
From a financial standpoint, Manchester United’s owners are firm on recouping a significant portion of their investment. The asking price for Hojlund is reportedly in the region of €45-50 million (£38.8-43.1 million), reflecting the club’s aim to offload players who do not align with their future vision quickly. This strategy echoes United’s recent dealings, such as the negotiation involving Jadon Sancho with Juventus, emphasizing a clear intent to streamline the squad.
As United navigate this transitional phase, the exit of Hojlund and other Ten Hag signings signals a decisive shift toward rebuilding a competitive roster capable of returning the club to its former heights.