The situation surrounding Rasmus Højlund cannot be fully understood without first examining the broader chaos of Manchester United’s recent sporting strategy. The club have repeatedly veered from underdeveloped prospects to hasty, reactionary signings that rarely solve the underlying issues.
Højlund is a reflection of that trend. Signed as a long-term project for nearly £75 million, the Danish striker has never truly been given the right system or environment to thrive. While the arrival of Rúben Amorim was expected to bring structure and clarity, uncertainty still looms, and now, fresh reports from Italy suggest Inter Milan are testing the waters.
According to Corriere dello Sport, via Sport Witness, Inter have submitted a proposal for a loan deal with an option to buy, which could become an obligation under certain conditions. Manchester United, however, have shown little interest in that model, instead signalling they would only consider a permanent sale worth £45 million.
Rasmus Højlund in Manchester United’s red, with an Inter Milan links, hinting at a potential transfer standoff
Cristian Chivu, involved in Inter Milan’s technical planning, has reportedly acknowledged that the club cannot match Manchester United’s asking price at this stage. Meanwhile, Parma have no intention of parting ways with Ange-Yoan Bonny, another target the Nerazzurri had considered. With roadblocks on all fronts, Inter continue to view Højlund as a viable solution for their forward line.
Manchester United, however, cannot afford to show weakness. Letting go of Højlund for less than their valuation would be tantamount to admitting yet another misstep in strategic planning. But the issue is not solely financial. Can Rúben Amorim truly construct a coherent attack without a defined replacement? For all his inconsistencies, the 22-year-old Dane provides physicality, presence, and developmental potential, qualities that are increasingly scarce in the current market.
Offloading him without securing proper cover would place unnecessary strain on the manager. Moreover, a loan deal with a mere option to buy neither provides immediate funds nor protects the club if Højlund flourishes in Italy without a firm obligation to purchase.
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Therefore, insisting on £45 million is understandable. It is not just a matter of accounting, but of authority. Giving in during these negotiations could be seen as a sign of weakness at a time when United’s sporting credibility is at stake.
The risk is undoubtedly in keeping a player who may not fit in with Amorim. However, losing him now, under unclear conditions, could affect more heavily in the long term. United need firm decisions, not vague compromises. This is not the time for more improvisation. Meanwhile, the player intends to stay amid Serie A interest.
Therefore, United’s insistence on a €45 million fee is entirely justified. Yielding in these negotiations could project an image of weakness at a time when the club’s sporting credibility hangs in the balance.
Of course, there’s a risk in retaining a player who may not fully align with Amorim’s tactical vision. Yet parting ways under unclear terms could have far greater consequences in the long run. What Manchester United need now are decisive actions, not vague compromises. This is no time for further improvisation. Meanwhile, despite growing interest from Serie A, the player reportedly wants to stay and prove himself at Old Trafford.