MANCHESTER UNITED appear to be moving closer to capturing the signing of top target Rasmus Hojlund.
Major steps have been taken ahead of United’s expected signing of the Dane – with Hojlund left out of Atalanta’s starting XI for their pre-season friendly against Bournemouth on Saturday.
ReutersRasmus Hojlund was left on the bench during Atalanta’ friendly with Bournemouth[/caption]
PAAtalanta do not want to risk an injury to the forward as a move gets closer[/caption]
It is understood that the Bergamo side do not want to risk Hojlund getting an injury that could scupper the sale of the forward.
Atalanta have received bids from both PSG and United over the past week, worth £42million and £51m respectively.
Hojlund’s preference is to join United and the forward has reportedly already agreed personal terms with the Red Devils.
Atalanta were originally holding out for a club record fee for the striker – valuing him at £68m.
But after it became clear that he wanted to leave, and both PSG and United appeared unwilling to meet Atalanta’s asking price, the Italians have sought a quick resolution to the saga.
United are desperate to sign a new No9 – with injury-prone Anthony Martial the only striker currently available in their squad.
Erik Ten Hag grew tired of the Frenchman’s injury struggles and made Hojlund his top priority signing after it became clear United would not have the capacity to sign Harry Kane.
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Ten Hag wants a deal for the forward to be wrapped up “as soon as possible” as he looks to have his team ready for the start of the upcoming Premier League season.
And while United are keen to get a deal over the line – they have made it clear to Atalanta that they will not pay over £60m for his signature.
In terms of outgoings, United rejected a £20m offer from West Ham for Harry Maguire last night.
The England centre-back looks certain to leave United this summer after being stripped of the captaincy by Ten Hag.
Boss David Moyes is now expected to return with a bigger offer and work on convincing Maguire to move to the Europa Conference League champs.