AC Milan are reportedly exploring a potential deal to bring Manchester United striker Rasmus Hojlund to San Siro, as the Danish international’s future at Old Trafford comes under renewed scrutiny. Despite publicly committing to staying at United just last week, fresh developments have cast doubts over his role in Ruben Amorim’s plans, especially with the impending arrival of Benjamin Sesko from RB Leipzig.
United signed Hojlund for a staggering £72 million from Atalanta in August 2023, hoping the then-20-year-old would be the long-term solution to their striking woes. Now 23, Hojlund has had an up-and-down spell at United, showing glimpses of his potential but struggling with consistency and injuries in a side that has failed to secure European football for the 2025–26 season.
In a recent 4-1 pre-season victory over Bournemouth in Chicago, Hojlund made headlines not just for his goal but also for his post-match comments. The forward spoke confidently about staying at the club, even with the competition expected from new signings. His remarks were seen as a strong message to the club’s hierarchy and manager Amorim, who is overseeing a significant squad reshuffle.
However, United’s pursuit of Benjamin Sesko – a 22-year-old Slovenian forward who impressed at Leipzig – signals a new direction in their attacking plans. Sesko’s arrival is imminent, with reports indicating he could be unveiled before United’s friendly against Fiorentina on Saturday. That has led to speculation that United might be willing to part ways with Hojlund if the right offer comes in.
AC Milan, facing a similar financial reality following their absence from European competition, are understood to be interested in Hojlund – but only on an initial loan basis. Sources close to the negotiations suggest Milan are prepared to pay an upfront loan fee of €4 million (around £3.47 million), with a purchase option set at €40 million (£34.7 million) for next summer.
Such a structure suits Milan’s budget constraints, while offering United a chance to recoup part of their initial outlay should Hojlund impress in Serie A. The Rossoneri have been in the market for a striker following the departures of Olivier Giroud and Luka Jović, and view Hojlund’s combination of pace, power, and Serie A experience as an ideal fit.
But United may not be inclined to accept a deal that values Hojlund at less than half the fee they paid two years ago. While the club is open to negotiations, insiders have suggested that the proposed terms from Milan may fall short of expectations. The coming days could prove pivotal, with further discussions anticipated.
It remains to be seen whether United will entertain a loan move or hold out for a permanent sale at a higher valuation. Alternatively, Hojlund could stay and fight for his place alongside Sesko, especially given the club’s need for squad depth and rotation.
Milan begin their Serie A campaign on August 23 against newly promoted Cremonese, and will want their squad settled before then. For United, the friendly against Fiorentina this weekend could offer fans a glimpse of their new attacking options – or serve as a farewell of sorts for Hojlund, if talks progress quickly.
Either way, Hojlund’s future is now in the spotlight, and with Milan keen to bring him back to Italy, the next week could see significant movement in one of the summer’s more intriguing transfer sagas.
