Man United Set to Seal Rasmus Hojlund Transfer as PSG's £43m Offer Falters
Man Utd close to securing Atalanta striker Rasmus Hojlund despite PSG's £43m bid; Negotiations ongoing to settle on a fee, with Man Utd reluctant to exceed €60m but Atalanta valuing player at €70m + add-ons; PSG's €50m offer unlikely to sway Man Utd due to FFP constraints
We have been informed that Atalanta and Manchester United are getting closer to reaching an agreement for the striker Rasmus Hojlund. Both clubs are currently negotiating a fee, with Atalanta considering a valuation of €70m along with additional payments based on performance.
Atalanta is on the verge of finalizing a deal to acquire forward El Bilal Toure from Almeria, which marks a significant development for the club. The Mali international is currently undergoing a medical examination following the agreement between the two clubs for a staggering £26.5m fee.
Although United is optimistic about securing a deal for Hojlund well before the commencement of the upcoming season, they are exploring alternative options in case the transfer fails to materialize.
United is aware that PSG has shown interest in Hojlund. They made a bid of €50m recently, however, United is pleased by Hojlund's willingness to join their team. The 20-year-old has no issues with personal terms and is keen on the move to Old Trafford. However, there is still a disparity in valuation, as Atalanta is seeking £59.8m (€70m) plus £8.5m (€10m) in add-ons.
Paris Saint-Germain has submitted a £43m (€50m) bid, however, Manchester United remains steadfast in their approach and will not be influenced by interest from other clubs. This stance is evident in their previous dealings for Mason Mount and Andre Onana, where they have demonstrated a commitment to sticking within their budgetary limits for player acquisitions this summer. United's adherence to Financial Fair Play guidelines and their determination to adhere to their predefined price points have resulted in a reluctance to exceed a £51m (€60m) package thus far.
However, they do have a positive rapport with the Serie A team following negotiations for Amad Diallo. Consequently, they have maintained regular communication with their counterparts in order to find a consensus regarding the transfer fee for Hojlund.
Progress is being made as both clubs are striving towards reaching a mutually beneficial agreement. Manchester United acknowledges that Hojlund still has room to grow and develop, but they have faith in Erik ten Hag's coaching abilities to shape him into a top-tier player.
If the Denmark international is signed, Marcus Rashford may have to take on the role of United's main player while Hojlund adapts and improves. In the long run, Hojlund is believed to possess the potential to become a world-class player under Ten Hag's guidance.
United does not necessarily have to sell players to acquire Hojlund and they are relying on the prospect of substantial sales this summer and in the January transfer window to comply with their financial requirements.
While there is optimism about reaching an agreement, the club has been engaging in simultaneous talks regarding Randal Kolo Muani from Eintracht Frankfurt as an alternative choice. Additionally, United has devoted substantial effort to securing Ajax's versatile player Mohammed Kudus, along with at least one other potential target, aiming to avoid a prolonged negotiation process and prevent any shortage in their attacking lineup at the beginning of the season.
PSG, meanwhile, are keen to sign a striker and believe they are "in the mix" to sign Harry Kane this summer if Tottenham decide to sell the England captain.
Ten Hag: Real Madrid defeat shows why Man Utd need a striker
Erik ten Hag states that Manchester United's failure to convert their opportunities in a 2-0 defeat to Real Madrid highlights their urgent requirement for a new striker. Despite having their own opportunities, United could not find the back of the net out of their 14 attempts, echoing their persistent struggles to capitalize on chances from the previous season.
When questioned about whether the attacking performance in Texas highlighted the need for a new striker, Ten Hag firmly agreed. "Without a doubt. There are two areas that require improvement - the initial pressing and goal conversion."
We require more players who are proficient in handling one-on-one situations. We encountered several instances of such situations involving Marcus Rashford, Scott McTominay, and Garnacho. It is essential to convert these opportunities into goals.
