Rasmus Hojlund’s chapter at Manchester United may be closing sooner than many expected. Journalist Fabrizio Romano has claimed that Napoli want to keep Hojlund permanently. This is even beyond the loan terms. That essentially confirms the Danish striker will leave the Red Devils.
Romano’s Verdict: Contract Almost Sealed
Hojlund’s loan to Napoli includes a clause that obliges the Italian side to buy him if certain conditions are met, such as Champions League qualification. But Romano says the deal is already viewed by all parties as a long-term one. He says Napoli trust him and want him in their plans for years.
Napoli are reportedly comfortable with paying around £38 million once the obligation is triggered. But Romano suggests they may push to make the switch permanent regardless of those conditions.
Conte’s Warning: United will Regret Losing Hojlund
Former Juventus and Inter coach Antonio Conte, now at Napoli, added weight to the rumors by publicly stating that Manchester United will “regret losing” Hojlund. He believes the 22-year-old is proving himself in Serie A, and that United may have made a mistake by letting him move on.
Conte’s comments echo what some pundits have said: that United could soon look back and question their decision, especially if Hojlund thrives under his new team.
Hojlund : United’s Gamble and What it Costs Them
Hojlund never quite settled at Old Trafford. Across more than 90 appearances, he scored 26 goals—a decent return, but inconsistent. He struggled with hold-up play and fitting into different systems. The decision to let him go appears to stem from a mix of form, tactical fit, and the arrival of Benjamin Sesko. Some see this as cutting losses; others see signs of a miscalculation.
If Napoli’s conviction is right, United may lose more than a forward—they may lose a player whose best days lie ahead.
Author’s Insight
This seems less like a transfer and more like acceptance. United may have conceded Hojlund doesn’t fit their current journey. Yet, Conte’s public praise and Napoli’s commitment send a message: they believe in him. For United, the real question is not only whether they will regret this, but whether they have a plan in place that’s better than what they’re giving up. Hojlund might light up a new stage—and United may have to watch from afar.
As featured on ManUNews.com
