Giovanni Manna, sporting director of Napoli, has stated that Rasmus Højlund’s permanent transfer from Manchester United is essentially a “formality.”
Højlund, who joined the Serie A champions on loan last summer, has made a significant impact, scoring nine goals in 20 matches, including a brace in Napoli’s recent 2-0 victory over Cremonese.
Currently, Napoli sits in third place in Serie A, securing one of Italy’s four coveted Champions League spots.
“We made every effort to acquire him,” Manna shared in an interview with the Italian newspaper Corriere dello Sport.
“Other prominent clubs showed interest, but his desire to join us played a key role, and we take pride in that,” he added.
“There is an option to buy and an obligation to do so if we qualify for the Champions League.”
“Højlund sees himself as a Napoli player, and we feel the same way. This connection is incredibly important.”
– Wolves draw summarizes Man Utd’s year: A mix of hope and disappointment
– Man United’s 2025: Highlights and Low Points
– Man United faced boos after the draw and made ‘no excuses’
When asked whether Højlund’s move to Napoli is merely a “formality,” Manna responded, “As of today, I believe so.”
Højlund transferred to United from Atalanta in August 2023 for £64 million ($86 million), with an additional £8 million ($11 million) possible in add-ons.
The 22-year-old forward netted 14 goals across 62 Premier League games, and reports suggest Napoli’s fee for his permanent move will be €44 million (£38 million, $51 million).
Benjamin Sesko, Højlund’s successor at United, has had difficulty settling into the Premier League, scoring just twice since his transfer from RB Leipzig in a deal reportedly worth up to £73.7 million ($100 million).