Manchester United are heading into a pivotal season with a flurry of transfer activity, signalling clear ambition to reshape their frontline.
The introduction of Benjamin Sesko, their eye-watering £73.62 million signing from RB Leipzig, has sparked much debate among fans and pundits alike.
Sesko’s arrival at Old Trafford was marked by his debut during the pre-season friendly against Fiorentina, an event that coincided with Rasmus Hojlund’s unexpected omission from the matchday squad for the first time in five pre-season games.
Manager Ruben Amorim’s decision to start Mason Mount as a makeshift striker over Rasmus Hojlund in that game fuelled further speculation about the Dane’s future.
With the 2026 World Cup looming, pressure is mounting on international players like Hojlund to secure regular minutes on the pitch.
His recent dip in form for Denmark—just one goal in his last 16 appearances—and being relegated to the bench for a crucial qualifier against Lithuania have only increased doubts about his starting place at United.
This dynamic has complicated matters.
The situation around Hojlund has become increasingly tense behind the scenes.
Despite the striker’s clear intention to remain at Old Trafford—publicly reiterated just 12 days ago—sources close to the player have revealed growing frustration over United’s stance.
According to the Manchester Evening News, the club’s willingness to cash in on Rasmus Hojlund if a new striker arrives has left the 22-year-old visibly unhappy, despite being just two years into a five-year contract he signed in July 2023 for a hefty £72 million fee from Atalanta.
United value him at around £30 million, but AC Milan, undergoing their own squad rebuild under Massimiliano Allegri after a disappointing eighth-place finish last season, are reportedly pushing for a loan deal rather than a permanent transfer.
It was reported that Hojlund is now open to joining Milan.
The prospect of a move to Milan, situated just 40 kilometres from Hojlund’s former club Atalanta, offers a familiar environment.
However, whether a deal can be agreed upon remains uncertain.
Meanwhile, United remain confident that negotiations with Milan can progress, though they appear ready to consider cashing in if Sesko cements his role as the new spearhead.
Ruben Amorim has not publicly guaranteed Hojlund’s future at the club, leaving the striker’s Old Trafford chapter hanging by a thread as the new campaign approaches.
