Manchester United are reportedly set to make their next big signing of the summer transfer window, with Atalanta striker Rasmus Højlund expected to join the club in the coming days. The 20-year-old goalscorer is expected to join the Premier League club for an initial fee of €75 million, which could reach a total of €84 million. This significant investment in a young forward with only one season of experience in a top European league might raise some eyebrows among Man Utd fans, but when considering the team’s lack of goalscorers and their struggles in front of the net last season, the need for a new striker becomes clear.
Last season, Man Utd finished third in the league table but struggled to score goals, ranking seventh in goals scored among all teams. Marcus Rashford finished as the club’s top goalscorer with 30 goals, followed by Bruno Fernandes with 14 goals. No other player in the team managed to break into double digits in terms of goals scored. Rashford and Fernandes, who do not play in traditional striker roles, had average goals per 90 minutes rates of 0.63 and 0.24, respectively. This highlights the urgent need for a new source of goals for the team, and Højlund could be that player.
Højlund had an impressive debut season in Serie A, scoring nine goals and providing four assists in 32 league games for Atalanta. Despite his young age, he quickly adapted to the league and showcased his potential as a top No.9. He is described as having all the necessary attributes for an attacker, including physical strength, speed, technique, and a natural instinct for scoring goals. While he may take some time to make an impact at Man Utd, his potential makes him an exciting signing for the club.
Man Utd’s decision to sign Højlund before his market value increases further demonstrates their belief in his potential. With a current market value of €45 million, he has the potential to become even more valuable in the future. This move could prove to be smarter than signing more established star No.9s like Victor Osimhen or Harry Kane.
In conclusion, Man Utd’s decision to invest a significant amount of money in Rasmus Højlund highlights their urgent need for a new striker and their belief in the young forward’s potential. With the team’s lack of goalscorers and struggles in front of the net last season, Højlund could provide the much-needed boost to their attack. While he may need some time to settle in, his impressive debut season in Serie A suggests that he has the qualities to become a star No.9 in the future.
