Rasmus Hojlund Napoli move “a formality” says sporting director | OneFootball

Napoli sporting director Giovanni Manna says Rasmus Hojlund’s (22) permanent move from Manchester United is now “a formality”.

The 22-year-old striker joined the Serie A champions on a season-long loan and has impressed, scoring nine goals so far. He scored twice in Napoli’s 2-0 win over Cremonese on Sunday, continuing his strong run of form.

Napoli’s deal with United includes an obligation to buy for £38m if the club qualify for the Champions League. Antonio Conte’s side currently sit third in Serie A, which would be enough to trigger the clause.

Asked whether the transfer was effectively decided, Manna said: “As of today, I think so.”

He added that Hojlund’s desire to join Napoli played a key role, despite interest from other clubs. “There were more storied clubs interested, but his will was crucial,” Manna told Corriere dello Sport, transcribed by BBC Sport.

Hojlund joined Manchester United from Atalanta in 2023 for £72m but struggled to secure a regular place, scoring four league goals last season. Although he wanted to stay, the arrival of Benjamin Sesko, Matheus Cunha, and Bryan Mbeumo pushed him down the pecking order.

The Denmark international has looked more settled back in Italy and recently shared a post after Napoli’s Italian Super Cup win with the caption: “What a great decision looks like.”

“The player considers himself a Napoli player, and the same goes for us,” Manna said.

GFN | Finn Entwistle