Fabrizio Romano: United Striker Hojlund Clarifies Stance on Transfer Exit | OneFootball

Rasmus Højlund’s Future Hinges on Loan With Obligation to Buy

Fabrizio Romano has reported that Manchester United striker Rasmus Højlund has outlined his preferred conditions for any potential move away from Old Trafford. The Denmark international, who only joined United last summer, remains determined to make his mark in the Premier League but has also been clear with suitors about the type of deal he would accept.

According to Romano, “Rasmus Højlund and his camp have made clear to Napoli, RB Leipzig, AC Milan and all clubs interested that he prefers loan with obligation to buy.”

Højlund’s Commitment to Manchester United

At just 22, Højlund remains one of the most promising strikers in Europe, and his first season at United offered glimpses of his potential. His work rate, movement and physicality drew praise, even if his goal tally did not always match expectations. Romano emphasised that “Højlund always wanted to stay at Man United” which underlines the player’s belief that his best years can still be spent in England.

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This stance matters to United supporters. It demonstrates that Højlund is not pushing for a departure, but is instead considering his options carefully. Only if the club and player reach a point where a move becomes necessary would he entertain the idea, and even then, his conditions are clear.

Confidence Through Certainty

The phrase “but if he has to leave, want move to be guaranteed to feel total confidence” carries weight. For Højlund and his camp, a standard loan deal is insufficient. The preference for a loan with an obligation to buy indicates a desire for long-term security. It also reflects his wish to feel valued and trusted by whichever club he represents.

Napoli, RB Leipzig and AC Milan have all been named among the interested sides. Each of these clubs offers a different style of football and environment, but none will persuade the player unless they match his request for certainty about his future.

Implications for Manchester United

For United, this situation is complex. On one hand, Højlund represents a major investment and remains central to the club’s attacking rebuild. On the other, United must balance ambition with realism. If a player feels unsettled or if the club identifies opportunities to reshape the squad, difficult decisions may follow.

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What is evident is that Højlund will not accept a temporary solution that leaves him in limbo. His demand for clarity could force clubs to either commit fully or walk away. For Manchester United, it places the responsibility on leadership to either provide him with the confidence he seeks at Old Trafford or make a decisive call in the transfer market.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

For Manchester United fans, this update brings a mixture of relief and caution. Relief because Højlund is clearly committed to United and does not see himself as someone desperate to leave, but caution because the story hints at a potential move if things do not go according to plan.

Supporters will take heart from Romano’s words that “Højlund always wanted to stay at Man United.” It shows a player willing to fight for his place and prove himself in one of the toughest leagues in the world. Fans have warmed to his energy and his willingness to press defenders, even in games where goals have been hard to come by.

However, the preference for a loan with obligation to buy means that if he does leave, it will be permanent in all but name. That suggests Højlund does not want to bounce around clubs or be seen as a stopgap striker. Fans may respect that mentality, but they will also want United to handle the situation with authority.

The wider concern is whether the club can give him the stability and service he needs. If United continue to struggle with creativity and consistency, Højlund’s development could be stunted. Supporters will expect the hierarchy to back him with the right system and signings, ensuring his potential is fulfilled at Old Trafford rather than elsewhere.