Negotiations between Napoli and Manchester United over striker Rasmus Højlund have moved quickly in recent days, and sources in both Italy and England believe a deal is now close.
Softfootball reported that Napoli had renewed contact with United and are now pushing hard for a loan arrangement that would eventually turn into a permanent transfer. The Serie A club prefers this structure, as it gives them short-term flexibility while still committing to a future purchase.
Sports expert Fabrizio Romano revealed on his official X handle that Antonio Conte is personally interested in the signing and is pushing aggressively behind the scenes.
He posted:
“Negotiations between Napoli and Man United are at final stages on loan deal with buy option clause to become mandatory.
Talks underway with Ramus Højlund and his camp over personal terms again today…
…with Napoli and Antonio Conte, pushing to get it done.”
Discussions have centered around an obligation to buy clause worth between €40m and €45m, and United are said to be open to the proposal. While Man United would ideally prefer an outright obligation to buy in order to secure guaranteed funds, they are not against the loan-plus-option model either.
What matters most to the Premier League side is that the agreement locks in Højlund’s long-term future away from Old Trafford. Højlund has made it clear through his representatives that he wants Napoli to commit to him with a guaranteed purchase clause, rather than just a simple loan.
For the 21-year-old, stability and clarity over his career path are just as important as the financial package on offer. Talks over personal terms have been positive, with Højlund’s camp responding well to Napoli’s project under Antonio Conte.
Conte is understood to be a strong driving force behind the transfer. The Napoli manager has long admired the Danish striker and believes he could be a key piece in reshaping the club’s attack.
While the final details are still being ironed out, optimism is growing that an agreement can be struck soon. If all goes as planned, Højlund could be set to swap Old Trafford for the Diego Armando Maradona Stadium before the window closes.
