Man Utd rumours ‘distracted’ transfer target Rasmus Hojlund

Atalanta boss Gian Piero Gasperini has suggested that Rasmus Hojlund was distracted by transfer rumours earlier in the season after becoming the name on everyone’s lips over the last international break. Manchester United have been among the clubs to be linked with a move for the big Dane with Erik ten Hag desperate to add a new striker to his ranks.

Hojlund has become one of the most sought-after players in world football in recent months after an impressive season with Atalanta. The 20-year-old has defied his young age to net eight times in his first 30 Serie A appearances for the club as he makes a name for himself within European football.

He properly displayed his quality during the last international break as he netted five times in two games for Denmark during the Euro qualifiers. He was quickly linked to a host of clubs in light of his performances with United among the most heavily linked given Ten Hag’s desperate quest to sign a new No 9.

Now, Atalanta manager Gasperini has spoken about the interest in his No 17, admitting rumours from elsewhere did initially affect his performances before he returned to form with a goal against Verona this weekend.

“The qualities are all there, at the beginning we had to get to know him but he immediately stood out for his great will to break through,” Gasperini told Tuttosport. “He did very well after the first stop [part of the season], then he was called up to the national team and too many rumours distracted him, then there was the [abductor] injury.

“Today’s goal demonstrates his power, if he knows how to improve he can take away great satisfaction. You have to know how to accept his moments, he will mature in all aspects.”

It remains to be seen whether or not United will look to bring him to Old Trafford but Hojlund’s previous comments suggest he could be keen on the move. The Dane has admitted he was a Red Devils fan during his youth and it would be a big deal to join the club.

“Now that you ask, I will not hide the fact that I am a huge Manchester United fan,” Hojlund said. “So personally, it would be one of the biggest things for me [to sign for United], but of course that doesn’t mean that I would turn down other big clubs if the offers come at some point.”

Harry Kane and Victor Osimhen are also believed to be under consideration by Ten Hag with a search for a new striker likely to take up much of the summer transfer window.