Man United take £34million hit as marquee signing leaves after three years

Manchester United have confirmed Rasmus Hojlund’s permanent exit from the club.

The forward has completed a move to Napoli following his loan spell with the Italian giants last season.

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Hojlund’s loan switch included a £38million obligation to buy if his side qualified for the Champions League.

Napoli went on to secure second place in Serie A to book their spot in the competition.

His departure sees United suffer a £34million loss just three years after signing the Danish international.

Hojlund joined the club from Atalanta in 2023 for £72million, signing a six-year deal at Old Trafford.

However, he scored just 14 goals in 62 Premier League appearances for the Red Devils.

In a statement confirming his exit, United said: “Rasmus Hojlund has joined Napoli on a permanent transfer.

“Everyone at the club would like to wish Rasmus all the very best for the future.”

Hojlund on transfer move

Hojlund had previously reacted to making his move permanent last month after Napoli secured Champions League qualification.

Their top four finish was confirmed with a win over Pisa on May 17 in which the 23-year-old was on the scoresheet.

Speaking after the final whistle, Hojlund explained: “I’m now officially a Napoli player and I’m saying goodbye to Manchester United.

“That feels weird, because for the past year I already feel like a Napoli player.

“The way you fans supported me, made me feel like home and let me find my confidence again is something I’m so grateful for.

“To say goodbye to Manchester United is something that kind of feels emotional too.

“My childhood dream came true by playing at Old Trafford in a red jersey.

“So the goal today symbolises a new confident start, in which I will give everything for the time ahead to Napoli, and a thank you to all the fans, players and staff of Manchester United who made the dream I had as a kid come true.

“It’s time for new dreams, so let’s chase them.”

Hojlund came close to matching his league tally for United in a single season with Napoli.

He ended the campaign with 12 goals in 33 Serie A appearances under Antonio Conte, with only four players scoring more in the division.

More to follow.