Rasmus Højlund’s time at Manchester United appears to be coming to an end, with Napoli reportedly agreeing to a £39 million mandatory purchase clause as part of a loan deal for the Danish striker.
Rasmus Højlund is on the verge of leaving Manchester United, with SSC Napoli reportedly in advanced talks to sign the Danish striker on a season-long loan. The deal, set to include a mandatory purchase clause valued at £39 million ($52m), will hinge on certain performance metrics, including appearances, goals, and Champions League qualification.
Højlund’s Time at United Comes to an End
After two seasons at Old Trafford, Højlund’s tenure at Manchester United appears to be winding down. The former Atalanta frontman has struggled to replicate the form that saw him rise to prominence in Serie A, netting just 26 goals in 95 appearances for United. Although the 22-year-old has shown glimpses of his potential, United are now willing to part ways with the Danish international, especially with Benjamin Sesko and Matheus Cunha joining the squad this summer.
Napoli’s Interest and Deal Structure
According to Gianluca Di Marzio, Napoli are willing to take Højlund on a loan deal for the 2025-2026 season. The Italian champions are looking for a striker after Romelu Lukaku was sidelined with a thigh injury. The loan agreement will include a £39 million mandatory purchase clause, which will be triggered based on Højlund’s appearances, goals scored, and whether Napoli qualify for the Champions League during his loan spell.
The structure of the deal would allow United to recoup a portion of the £72 million ($97m) they spent to sign Højlund in 2023, but they would still face a loss of £33 million ($44m) on the deal. Despite this, United have opened the door for the Danish striker’s departure, with Højlund not figuring in their plans for the 2025-2026 season.
What’s Next for Højlund?
Scott McTominay, a former Manchester United player now at Napoli, is said to have contacted Højlund to discuss the prospect of joining Antonio Conte’s squad in Naples. Napoli’s pursuit of a new No.9 has become more urgent following Lukaku’s injury, and Højlund could be the perfect fit to lead their attack in Serie A.
Conclusion: Højlund’s Move a Step Closer
With Napoli keen to add Højlund to their ranks and an agreement close to completion, it seems Manchester United are ready to move on from the 22-year-old striker. The transfer could prove beneficial for both clubs, with United cutting their losses and Napoli gaining a potential star to lead their attack. Højlund’s move to Italy may also offer him the chance to reignite his career in Serie A, where he previously thrived.
