Atalanta manager Gian Piero Gasperini omitted up-and-coming striker Rasmus Hojlund from the team in today’s 3-1 demolition of Bournemouth. According to Fabrizio Romano, the Dane’s absence against the Premier League minnows is the latest indication of his imminent move to Manchester United.
Despite Paris Saint-Germain’s last-ditch attempt to hijack Man Utd’s bid to sign Hojlund, the 20-year-old’s future is at Old Trafford. United’s opening verbal offer for the former Sturm Graz frontman failed to impress Atalanta a few days ago.
Man Utd’s proposal featured a substantial €50 million upfront plus another €10m in various add-ons. However, Atalanta won’t budge on their valuation. They demand €70m to let their highly-rated prodigy leave the Gewiss Stadium after only one year.
Hellbent on making Hojlund their frontline leader, the Red Devils are working around the clock to satisfy Atalanta. Their idea of matching the Italians’ request includes the improvement on the bonus front.
The Premier League titans want to bridge the gap by including a number of performance-related bonuses. Though Atalanta would ideally take the whole figure now, they may have to settle for being paid in several installments.
Gasperini’s men have already laid the foundation for a post-Hojlund era. Atalanta announced the arrival of El-Bilal Toure from Almeria on Saturday. The 21-year-old should feel the Denmark international’s shoes next season after joining La Dea in a club-record €30m deal.
As for Hojlund, he can start packing his bags. Man Utd are waiting in the wings.
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