Transfer Battle Intensifies: Manchester United Nears Deal for Atalanta Striker Rasmus Hojlund, Defying PSG's Bid

News reports suggest that Atalanta and Manchester United are nearing an agreement for striker Rasmus Hojlund. The clubs are currently negotiating a compromise regarding the transfer fee, with Atalanta believed to be valuing the player at €70m (£60.1m) along with additional performance-based incentives.

United are optimistic about reaching an agreement for Hojlund well before the upcoming season. However, they do have alternative options if a deal cannot be completed. The Premier League team received positive news on Saturday as Atalanta secured the signing of El Bilal Toure from Almeria. Meanwhile, Hojlund was not included in the squad that faced Bournemouth in a pre-season friendly.

There are no personal issues between United and Hojlund, but there is still a difference in valuation between the two clubs. United is aware of PSG's interest in Hojlund, as they made a €50m (£43m) bid earlier this week. However, United is optimistic due to Hojlund's expressed desire to transfer to Old Trafford.

United remains unaffected by interest from other clubs regarding the player while they have demonstrated their commitment to not surpass their maximum budget for a player this summer, as seen in the signings of Mason Mount and Andre Onana. With Financial Fair Play limitations and a firm adherence to their price thresholds, United has been thus far hesitant to exceed a £51m (€60m) package.

However, they have developed a positive rapport with the Serie A team following their dealings for Amad Diallo earlier this year. Additionally, ongoing communication between the two sides has been focused on finding a mutually beneficial resolution regarding the transfer fee for Hojlund.

Consequently, both clubs are making progress towards finding common ground. Manchester United acknowledges that Hojlund is still a work in progress but sees the potential for him to become a top-tier player under the guidance of Erik ten Hag's coaching.

If the Denmark international is brought in, it is anticipated that Marcus Rashford may be required to fill in as Manchester United's number 9 occasionally, allowing Hojlund time to adapt and develop his skills.

To acquire Hojlund, United does not have to offload players and is relying on substantial sales during the summer and January transfer window to remain within the necessary financial boundaries.

The club is confident about finalizing a deal, but they have also been engaging in simultaneous talks for Randal Kolo Muani from Eintracht Frankfurt, considering him as an alternative option. Apart from that, Manchester United has invested significant effort in pursuing Mohammed Kudus from Ajax, who possesses excellent versatility. Additionally, they have been assessing at least one more potential target to avoid a lengthy and uncertain transfer saga, ensuring they have sufficient attacking options 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

Ten Hag insisted that United's recent 2-0 friendly defeat to Real Madrid highlighted their desperate need for a new striker. Despite having opportunities to score, United failed to convert any of their 14 attempts, a recurring issue that plagued them throughout the previous season.

When questioned about whether the attacking performance in Texas highlights the need for a new striker, Ten Hag concurred, stating, "Without a doubt. Two aspects stood out - the pressing could have been stronger right from the beginning and we need to improve our goal-scoring abilities."

We require more players who possess the ability to excel in one-on-one situations, and we have encountered such scenarios before.

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