Market Value: €35 million
Rasmus Højlund is becoming increasingly likely to leave Manchester United this summer, especially with the imminent arrival of Benjamin Sesko from RB Leipzig. United is set to pay an initial fee of €78.5 million for the Slovenian international, which could increase to €85 million with add-ons. The addition of Sesko raises significant questions about Højlund’s future. Reports suggest that United is open to offers, either for a loan or a permanent transfer, before the transfer window closes, despite Højlund’s desire to stay.
During a recent interview while on United’s pre-season tour in the United States, Højlund stated, “I think my plan is very clear: I intend to stay and fight for my spot, no matter what happens. I’m still very young; I think people forget that sometimes. I’m only 22. Competition is welcome; it sharpens me. I’m ready and feeling sharp, so I’m open to whatever comes my way.” While Højlund’s assertion about being just 22 is valid and highlights his potential, his performance last season, with only four goals in 32 Premier League matches, raises concerns. There was considerable excitement when United forked out €77.8 million to sign Højlund from Atalanta two years ago, and he continues to attract attention from various European clubs. Although the striker wishes to remain and compete for his position, we’ve outlined five possible destinations for him this summer.
Five Possible Transfer Destinations for Rasmus Højlund
AC Milan
AC Milan is currently the frontrunner to acquire Højlund this summer as they initiate a new chapter under Massimiliano Allegri. Reports suggest that the Rossoneri have begun initial discussions with United for a loan deal with a purchase option. Allegedly, AC Milan is prepared to offer €5 million for the loan, with a €40 million buy clause, but it is uncertain whether either United or Højlund will accept these terms.
RB Leipzig
RB Leipzig could be an intriguing option given Sesko’s transfer to United. It has been reported that the Bundesliga club inquired about Højlund’s availability during negotiations for Sesko, but Højlund was not inclined to move to Leipzig. However, his position may change if Ruben Amorim indicates that Højlund is not in his plans for the upcoming season.
Bayer Leverkusen
Despite his initial reluctance to move to the Bundesliga, Bayer Leverkusen presents Højlund with the chance to reunite with Erik ten Hag, who was instrumental in bringing him to Manchester United. Transfermarkt indicates that Leverkusen has not ruled out a move for the United striker, which could be beneficial given that Højlund’s style of play aligns well with the Bundesliga. Additionally, Leverkusen boasts a significant transfer budget as they have earned the second-highest income of any club this summer (€206 million) and will need to replace departing talents.
Inter Milan
Inter Milan had expressed strong interest in Højlund earlier this summer and may still reignite that pursuit. The club is undergoing a transformation as they aim to lower the average age of their squad, having already signed five permanent players aged 23 and under. Højlund could fit well within their recruitment strategy, but Inter currently boasts two elite forwards, Lautaro Martinez and Marcus Thuram, which may shift their focus elsewhere.
Newcastle United
Newcastle has experienced a challenging transfer window thus far, facing rejections from multiple key targets, including Sesko. The Magpies proposed a higher fee to Leipzig than United for the striker, but he ultimately preferred to join Amorim’s camp. With uncertainty surrounding Alexander Isak’s future, Newcastle is keen to bolster their attacking options this summer and has been linked with Porto striker Samu Aghehowa, but Højlund could serve as a viable alternative at a more accessible price.
