Napoli Close to Signing Rasmus Højlund from Manchester United

Napoli are close to signing Manchester United striker Rasmus Højlund on loan. The deal may include a mandatory buy option, as both clubs work together to finalize it.

NEGOTIATIONS REACH FINAL STAGES

Napoli and Manchester United have progressed in talks for Rasmus Højlund. Napoli have reportedly agreed personal terms with the 22-year-old striker, with discussions now focusing on the last contract details. Napoli pursued harder after suffering a major setback as Romelu Lukaku was ruled out for three to four months due to a thigh injury. With Højlund keen for guarantees on his future, recent progress in talks signals that the agreement for loan and obligation to buy is likely to be completed soon. Højlund is encouraged by the strong curiosity from Napoli and championship-winning coach Antonio Conte, who has prioritized signing for the attack as Napoli are moving forward in their bid to sign him.

WHY THIS MOVE MATTERS

Napoli had a good start to the 2025-26 season, winning their opener in the Serie A against Sassuolo by 2-0. Højlund joined Manchester United for €77.8 million in 2023, but he managed just 10 goals and four assists in 52 appearances last season during a challenging debut season. United recently signed Benjamin Sesko from RB Leipzig, moving Højlund further down the pecking order and making his departure likely. Højlund made his name in Serie A with Atalanta, and a return to Italy could help him regain form. Napoli hope he can quickly adapt and help solve their scoring problems as Lukaku recovers.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR NAPOLI AND HOJLUND?

With talks nearly complete, Højlund is expected to finalize his move in the coming days. Napoli will be counting on him as they prepare for their next fixture against Cagliari, who drew their league opener against Fiorentina at home. The match will be a key test and could set the tone for the coming months. United, meanwhile, are comfortable letting Højlund go after bringing in attacking reinforcements. If the deal goes ahead as planned, Højlund will have the chance to establish himself in Conte’s system and renew his reputation in Serie A, while Napoli look to climb the table and stay in reach of the Champions League spots as they urgently search for a striker after Lukaku’s injury.