Manchester United have confirmed the signing of striker Rasmus Hojlund from Atalanta.
The Athletic reported that the 20-year-old was due in Manchester for a medical on Tuesday ahead of a transfer worth €75million plus €10million in performance-related add-ons.
Hojlund has signed a five-year contract with the option of a further 12 months.
“It is still early in my career, but I know that I am ready to make this step up and play with this group of world–class players,” Hojlund said.
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“Once I had spoken to the manager, I knew that this environment would be perfect for my development; I am relishing the opportunity to work with one of the best coaches in the world. Under his guidance and support, I know that I am capable of achieving great things together with my new teammates at this special club.”
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While other options — including Eintracht Frankfurt’s Randal Kolo Muani and Ajax midfielder Mohammed Kudus — were under consideration, Hojlind was United’s primary target to reinforce attack.
Hojlund only joined Atalanta last summer, moving from Austrian side Sturm Graz. He registered eight goals and two assists in 31 Serie A games.
The Denmark international, who scored five goals in two games during Euro 2024 qualifying in March, is United’s third signing of the summer following the arrivals of Mason Mount and Andre Onana.
John Murtough, United’s football director, said after the signing of Hojlund was confirmed: “Throughout the summer we have acted quickly and decisively to secure our primary targets early in the transfer window. This will ensure that Erik and his coaches have the best opportunity to prepare the squad to push for further success in the exciting campaign ahead.”
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Ahmed Walid and Mark Carey look at how practically suited Hojlund is to Ten Hag’s United plans. They break down his finishing and look closely at a few examples. You can read the full article here.
“While Hojlund’s nine league goals last season in 32 appearances did not set Serie A alight in numbers terms, his raw attributes (he only left his teens in February) align closely with the profile of striker Ten Hag is looking for — that of a player who is willing to run in behind, link the attack, work hard out of possession and, of course, have a strong penalty-box presence.
“Hojlund’s physical attributes are likely to make any adaptation to Premier League football smoother than most, but his speed in transitional moments will be particularly suited to Ten Hag’s side.”
Carl Anka and Mark Carey have looked at striker options for Manchester United and focussed on Hojlund’s performance last season for Atalanta. You can read the full profile here, including an analysis of all his shots in Serie A in 2022-23.
“Hojlund’s debut year in Serie A was promising but a little curious. Twenty of his 32 league appearances were as a starter, with manager Gian Piero Gasperini sometimes choosing to use him as a second-half ‘closer’ to run against tired opposition legs.
“When Hojlund did enter the field of play, he gave a good account of himself.
“Ten Hag may have spoken of wanting an experienced striker who brings ‘no risk’, but the joy of Hojlund — who only left his teens in February — comes in pondering the player he might be in two to three seasons’ time.”
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(Photo: Emilio Andreoli/Getty Images)