Ten Hag closing in on Man United move for £60m “machine” just imagine him and Mainoo
Following an update on Atalanta’s pursuit of Rasmus Hojlund, it seems that Erik ten Hag, the manager of Manchester United, is nearing the completion of another significant summer transfer deal. The club has already secured the signings of Mason Mount and agreed on terms for Inter Milan’s Andre Onana.
Regarding Hojlund and Manchester United, according to Miguel Delaney’s report in the Independent, the Red Devils are in advanced negotiations to bring the 20-year-old Danish star to Old Trafford. Hojlund is said to be enthusiastic about the possibility of joining the team, and while discussions on potential add-ons in the deal are ongoing, there is growing confidence that the transfer will be finalized soon.
It is speculated that the agreement may be closer to £60 million, as Manchester United aims to adhere to Financial Fair Play regulations, whereas Inter Milan was initially seeking a fee around £80 million.
Rasmus Hojlund is being pursued as a potential center-forward option for Manchester United due to Anthony Martial’s injury struggles last season, leaving him as the sole senior option in that position. Hojlund’s goal-scoring abilities are not particularly outstanding, as he managed just nine league goals in Italy last season.
While there might be concerns about his immediate impact, the hope is that the 6-foot-3 “machine” can emerge as a key player for Manchester United in the long term. His talent has drawn comparisons to Erling Haaland.
Erik ten Hag is likely planning an exciting future for his team, with players like Hojlund and Kobbie Mainoo forming a promising spine. Mainoo, an 18-year-old talent from the academy ranks, is expected to stay with the first team for the upcoming season, and there are hopes that he will develop into a significant presence in the midfield.
With experienced players like Christian Eriksen and Casemiro approaching their 30s, Mainoo may take on a central role in the midfield, with Hojlund leading the attack as the number nine. This prospect excites Ten Hag, as Hojlund has been praised for his football intelligence by Graz manager Christian Ilzer, and Mainoo’s excellent footballing brain has been recognized by youth coach Travis Binnion.