Højlund to Napoli: €6m Loan deal with €44m buy option sealed

By Kazeem Ugbodaga

Manchester United striker Rasmus Højlund is set to join Serie A champions Napoli on a loan deal, with a verbal agreement finalized between all parties, according to renowned transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.

The move marks a significant shift for the 22-year-old Danish international, who has struggled for game time at Old Trafford this season.

The agreement includes a €6 million loan fee for the 2025-26 season, with a buy option clause worth €44 million that becomes mandatory under specific conditions.

Højlund, who reportedly gave his approval to Napoli days ago, is scheduled to undergo a medical within the next 24 hours, paving the way for his return to Serie A, where he previously played for Atalanta.

Højlund’s departure follows Manchester United’s signing of RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Šeško, which has relegated the Dane to the sidelines under manager Rúben Amorim.

Despite scoring 26 goals in 95 appearances since his £72 million move to United in 2023, Højlund’s inconsistent form and a 21-game goalless streak last season prompted the club to consider transfer options.

Napoli’s interest intensified after their star striker Romelu Lukaku suffered an injury expected to sideline him for over three months.

The deal represents a pragmatic move for Manchester United, securing a loan fee while potentially recouping a significant portion of their initial investment if Napoli triggers the €44 million buy clause.

For Højlund, the move offers a chance to rediscover his form in a competitive environment, with Napoli’s Champions League participation adding further appeal.

Romano announced the breakthrough on X, stating, “Rasmus Højlund to Napoli, here we go! Verbal agreement done between all parties involved.”