Manchester United Still In Pursuit Of This Atalanta Striker: Can Ten Hag Secure His Services?

According to a report from Express, Manchester United manager Erik Ten Hag has asserted a notable advancement in the search for a new forward at Old Trafford. Hojlund is believed to be his prime target, although Atalanta aims to maximise his sale value by imposing a staggering price tag of £86 million.

The Serie A club have also made developments of their own as they’ve found a replacement for Hojlund and are closing in on a potential deal. This further boosts the Red Devils, implying that Hojlund is set to exit this summer.

Hojlund’s Incredible Rise In Italian Football

The 20-year-old has undergone a remarkable journey in Italian football, leaving a lasting impression with his outstanding performances for Atalanta, especially when scoring goals. During the previous season, Hojlund exhibited his prowess by netting ten goals and providing four assists in 34 matches across all competitions for the Italian club.

Denmark’s forward Rasmus Hojlund (R) and Finland’s goalkeeper Lucas Hradecky (L) vie for the ball during the UEFA Euro 2024 Group H qualification football match Denmark v Finland on March 23, 2023 in Copenhagen, Denmark. (Photo by Liselotte Sabroe / Ritzau Scanpix / AFP) / Denmark OUT (Photo by LISELOTTE SABROE/Ritzau Scanpix/AFP via Getty Images)

This young and talented striker also showcased strong leadership qualities, maintaining impressive averages of 1.7 shots, 0.8 key passes, and 0.9 dribbles per 90 minutes in Serie A. However, there is room for improvement in his distribution skills in the attacking third, evident from his pass completion rate of 74.3% in league matches (stats via whoscored).

Hojlund’s current contract with the Serie A club is set to run until the summer of 2027. However, the player is keen on a transfer away from the Italian club, potentially opening the possibility for Manchester United to secure his services during this off-season. Nonetheless, the Red Devils would have to cough up an offer close to Atalanta’s valuation as they hold firm with their price tag.

What Will He Bring To Manchester United?

Hojlund showcases a remarkable talent for creating opportunities to take precise shots, adept at finding space on the pitch for himself. When brimming with confidence, the Danish forward displays excellent finishing abilities in front of the opponent’s goal. Moreover, he exhibits the capability to generate significant scoring chances for his teammates in the final third, backed by strong dribbling skills. With such attributes, the young talent possesses the ideal qualities to offer the much-needed firepower to Manchester United under the guidance of manager Erik Ten Hag.

Hojlund’s arrival would bolster the team’s attacking options and create an opportunity for Marcus Rashford to play in his preferred position on the left wing. This adjustment will likely benefit the English forward, as he feels more at ease operating on the wing than as a central striker. Considering this advantageous prospect, Ten Hag should undoubtedly engage in negotiations to secure a favourable deal and make the signing happen this summer.