Rasmus Højlund Set For Napoli Switch In Major Transfer Breakthrough

Rasmus Højlund is close to joining Napoli from Manchester United. He could move on loan with an obligation to buy for €45 million. The clubs and the player’s representatives are in fast negotiations to finalize the deal before the transfer window closes.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Talks moved fast after Napoli lost Romelu Lukaku to a thigh injury. The Belgian striker is expected to be out for four months. Napoli chose Højlund as their top replacement and started serious talks with Manchester United. United accepted a loan proposal worth €5 million, with a buy clause at €40 million, which may become mandatory. Højlund has agreed on personal terms, and both clubs hope to complete the transfer soon. Reports indicate Napoli are moving forward in their bid to sign Højlund, as they need a forward after Lukaku’s injury.

The Danish striker struggled at United, scoring just six goals and providing two assists in 33 appearances last season. New arrival Benjamin Sesko took his starting place.

WHY THE MOVE MATTERS

Napoli hope Højlund can help them improve after a tough start to their Serie A title defense. Lukaku’s injury left a gap in attack. They sit top in Serie A after the opening match, but need a reliable striker due to the Belgian’s expected 3 month absence, missing both Serie A and Champions League matches. Højlund’s playing time dropped as the club looked for more reliable scoring options. After Lukaku’s serious injury, Napoli is urgently searching for a new striker.

For Manchester United, moving Højlund clears salary space and may fund new transfers. They aim to recover from last season’s fifteenth-place Premier League finish.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR NAPOLI AND UNITED?

Final terms are being discussed, and an official announcement could come within 48 hours. Napoli play Cagliari next in Serie A. Cagliari drew the opener against Fiorentina, and will now try to get a positive result against the current champions. Manchester United continue their search for new signings and prepare for a tough match against Burnley. The transfer is expected to be done before the window closes, with Højlund possibly available for Napoli’s next game.