Man United have reportedly stepped up their efforts to sign Danish attacking sensation Rasmus Hojlund. The Red Devils pursuits may also be boosted by the forward’s admiration for a club icon – none other than Cristiano Ronaldo.
Currently with Atalanta, Hojlund has emerged as an exciting young talent in Serie A. He has hit 15 goals and seven assists across all competitions for La Dea as the Dane has stepped up in the absence of more experienced figures.
Many pundits compliment the attacker’s pace and power – with Hojlund even drawing comparisons to Erling Haaland.
In addition, Hojlund announced himself on the international stage in March. During a pair of Euro 2024 qualifiers, the forward hit a hat-trick against Finland. He then followed this up with a brace in a loss to Kazakhstan.
The rising stock of Rasmus Hojlund has put clubs such as Man United on high alert. According to The Athletic, United have begun “detailed talks” surrounding a transfer for the explosive 20-year-old. Erik ten Hag is very keen to sign a striker during this transfer window – with Hojlund near the top of his wish list.
The Old Trafford side will also be thrilled that Hojlund could be interested in moving to Manchester, too. After all, he is apparently a fan of United. One of his idols was a legendary figure at the club as well, which could help.
Rasmus Hojlund on his admiration for Man United legend
In a 2023 interview with Serie A, Rasmus Hojlund shared how he had tracked Cristiano Ronaldo’s career since his days at Man United.
“My father introduced me to him [Ronaldo] when he was at United,” explained the Dane. “Then me and my best friend followed him when he was at Real Madrid.
“I just like his mentality, and I love that he’s so eager to score a goal. The thing for me is that he’s so passionate about wanting to be the best. That, I like about him.”
Hojlund also had kind words for another ex-Man United pro: Chris Smalling. He hailed the Roma defender as one of his toughest opponents.
“I think the guy I had most trouble with [in Serie A] so far is Chris Smalling. He was more clever, smarter, he was also fast and strong. So, I couldn’t use my body as much, and I had to use some other ways [to try and beat him]. I didn’t really find the key for that.”
So, with so much respect for past Man United stars, surely Rasmus Hojlund will want to create his own legacy with the Red Devils, right? He is not the only striker on the club’s radar, though.
Harry Kane and Randal Kolo Muani on United shortlist
Erik ten Hag is looking to sign both an established striker and a forward to develop.
Hojlund comes into the second of these two categories due to his young age. If Man United cannot sort a deal for him, then Frankfurt’s Randal Kolo Muani is an alternative.
The Frenchman had a strong season in the Bundesliga, registering 15 goals.
Meanwhile, fans should brace themselves for a summer of Harry Kane speculation. United appear his most likely destination, should the England captain leave Spurs. However, Daniel Levy has reiterated his desire to keep the club’s record goal-scorer.
Whether it is Rasmus Hojlund, Kane, or Kolo Muani, it appears that the Man United attack will undergo some changes.
Featured image credit: Getty
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