Rasmus Højlund: From a Dead End at Manchester United to New Hope at Napoli

Muhe - Tuesday, 26 August 2025 | 01:00 PM (WIB)

Rasmus Højlund: From a Dead End at Manchester United to New Hope at Napoli

Rasmus Højlund's name returns to the headlines in the 2025 summer transfer window. Manchester United's expensive signing of the talented Danish striker last summer is now said to be leaving Old Trafford. Napoli is said to be negotiating the signing of Højlund on a loan deal with an option to permanently sign him. The latest has sparked fierce discussion among football fans and commentators.

A Disappointing Career at Old Trafford

Manchester United acquired Højlund in the summer of 2023 on a transfer of £72 million from Atalanta. He was then considered a long-term asset who would be able to build the spine of the Red Devils' attack. His performance has, however, declined below par. Chronic injuries and inconsistency on the pitch have limited his contribution.This term, his position has become even more restricted. The arrival of new forwards like Benjamin Šeško, Matheus Cunha, and Joshua Zirkzee has pushed Højlund to the periphery. He hasn't played even a single competitive match this season, which is raising doubts about his future at Manchester United.

Napoli Opens the Door

Where his development stalled in England, there is now a new opportunity in Italy. Napoli, in Romelu Lukaku's absence due to a long injury, see Højlund as a quick fix. English and Italian media report Napoli are willing to make a loan deal with an option or even obligation to buy for a fee of around £39 million.This move is considered acceptable. Højlund has already made it work in Serie A with Atalanta, and thus his transition is considered smooth. Napoli also needs a forward who can shift around in the frontline, which Højlund continues to do even though his level has gone down in England.

Milan Withdraws, United Faces Losses

Other than Napoli, AC Milan had previously been linked with Højlund. The team has now, however, set their sights on other strikers such as Victor Boniface. With Milan now out of the running, Napoli stands the best chance to acquire his signature.For Manchester United, letting go of Højlund is not an easy decision. The team risks losing a lot of money, given his sale price is way lower than the cost of buying him. In case Napoli is negotiated, United could lose up to £30–40 million. This notwithstanding, the management is more interested in having the balance in the team than in keeping players who do not fit the short-term plan.

Restarting the Striker's Career

For Højlund, Napoli could be the turning point. At the age of 22, his career is by no means over. In Serie A, he could have a starting position that would provide him with regular playing time and demonstrate that he is still one of the best young players in Europe.Most supporters also believe that the pressure is different from the Premier League in Italy. At Napoli, Højlund is able to play more freely without the scrutiny at Old Trafford. If he's able to provide vital goals, perhaps his career can once again sparkle.The Rasmus Højlund transfer drama is a testament to football's brutality these days. A highly remunerated signing for Manchester United, he is now forced to toughen it out to get back on track. Napoli would be just the place to restart, and United has to swallow financial disappointments.What is certain is that the coming weeks will be telling. Will Højlund finally get a new home in Napoli, or will he continue to falter at Old Trafford? Only time will tell.