Softfootball reports that AC Milan has eased off their pursuit of Rasmus Højlund after weeks of following up on his situation, turning attention to alternatives such as Bayer Leverkusen striker Victor Boniface. The shift is understood to stem from Manchester United’s insistence on either a permanent sale or a loan with an obligation to buy terms that left Milan cautious.
For Højlund, sources say he would only consider leaving Old Trafford on a loan deal tied to a guaranteed purchase. The Danish striker wants certainty about his future and is reluctant to embark on another temporary move that leaves him in limbo at the end of the season.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano echoed this sentiment on his official X account, noting:
“Rasmus Højlund and his camp have made clear to Napoli, RB Leipzig, AC Milan and all clubs interested that he prefers loan with obligation to buy.
“Højlund always wanted to stay at Man United……
“but if he has to leave, want move to be guaranteed to feel total confidence.”
Højlund’s determination to stay and fight for his place at United is well documented. He has spoken publicly about his commitment to the club’s project and the long-term contract that ties him to Old Trafford until 2030. Yet his situation looks increasingly complicated.
The arrival of Benjamin Šeško and Højlund’s omission from the bench in United’s final pre-season friendly suggest he could find himself further down Ruben Amorim’s pecking order.
That uncertainty has opened the door for suitors across Europe. Napoli, in particular, are monitoring the situation closely as they search for a short-term replacement for the injured Romelu Lukaku.
Reports in Italy claim the Serie A champions are prepared to put forward terms similar to those Milan had been discussing a loan move that carries the security of a permanent switch.
For now, Højlund remains a Manchester United player, but with the transfer window edging toward its final stretch, his future could hinge on whether a club is willing to meet both United’s demands and his own desire for stability.
