According to Ben Jacobs, Napoli and Manchester United are close to striking a deal for striker Rasmus Højlund, with talks advancing over a package worth £40m. The formula remains a loan with conditional obligation, as United look to balance their squad following the arrival of Benjamin Šeško.
Højlund has been told he can leave after just one season at Old Trafford, with Rúben Amorim now boasting three centre-forward options: Matheus Cunha, Šeško, and Joshua Zirkzee. With competition fierce, United are prepared to cash in on the Danish international.
Jacobs on the Situation
“Understand Napoli and Manchester United are now close to a £40m agreement for Rasmus Højlund. Personal terms still being finalised, but progress has been made on all sides.” — Ben Jacobs
For Napoli, Højlund is viewed as a long-term replacement for Victor Osimhen, who left earlier this summer.
Amorim’s Striker Options
United’s summer business has reshaped the frontline. Amorim has already tested Cunha as a No.9, while Šeško’s arrival adds a target man profile and Zirkzee offers technical variety. Højlund’s path to regular starts has narrowed, making the Napoli move logical.
Rasmus Højlund – 2024/25 Season (Manchester United)
| Stat (2024/25) | Rasmus Højlund |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 52 |
| Goals | 10 |
| Assists | 4 |
| Pass Accuracy | –% |
source: sofascore match data – 27 August 2025
While his output was modest, Højlund’s work rate, pressing and physical profile made him a useful squad option. Napoli believe, with regular minutes, his numbers could rise significantly in Serie A.
Analyst Verdict
FootballPlace analyst John William sees the transfer as a reset for player and club:
“Højlund’s raw potential is undeniable, but United’s move for Šeško shows they see their long-term No.9 elsewhere. A £40m deal with loan + obligation is good business if Napoli get him scoring consistently. For United, it clears the logjam up front and gives Amorim clarity with Cunha, Šeško and Zirkzee.”
He added: “Napoli may be the perfect stage — Serie A’s tempo could allow Højlund to refine his finishing and regain confidence.”
Key Insights
- Napoli and United close on £40m loan + conditional obligation deal.
- Højlund played 52 games, 10 goals, 4 assists in 2024/25.
- Amorim’s striker options: Cunha, Šeško, Zirkzee.
- Napoli view him as successor to Victor Osimhen.
- Personal terms still being finalised, but progress made.
What’s Next for Højlund?
Talks are expected to accelerate this week, with Napoli keen to finalise the deal before deadline day. If agreed, Højlund would fly to Italy for a medical and signing ceremony, potentially unveiled before Napoli’s Serie A fixture this weekend.
For United, moving Højlund on quickly will allow Amorim to focus on his three preferred striker options without rotation uncertainty.
Will Højlund flourish in Serie A with Napoli — or has United given up on him too soon?
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