Manchester United confirm Hojlund's arrival in reported €85M deal

Erling Haaland, meet Rasmus Hojlund.

Manchester United have a Scandinavian star to rival Manchester City’s top-scoring Haaland after completing the signing of 20-year-old Danish forward Hojlund from Atalanta on Saturday.

United reportedly agreed to pay the Italian club €75 million up front and another €10 million in potential bonuses.

Hojlund rubber-stamped a five-year deal at Old Trafford with the option of a further season.

“It is no secret that I have been a fan of this great club since I was a small boy, and I dreamed of walking out at Old Trafford as a Manchester United player,” Hojlund said upon being unveiled by the Red Devils. “I am incredibly excited by this opportunity to turn that dream into a reality, and I am determined to repay the faith that the club has shown in me.”

“It is still early in my career, but I know that I am ready to make this step up and play with this group of world-class players,” the young striker added.

Hojlund is United’s third big-money summer signing following the arrivals of goalkeeper Andre Onana and midfielder Mason Mount. The club also welcomed back veteran defender Jonny Evans on a short-term deal.

Atalanta turned a huge profit on Hojlund, whom they signed for a reported €17 million only a year ago from Austrian outfit Sturm Graz. The forward scored nine goals in 33 Serie A appearances and wowed audiences with his speed and dribbling ability.

Hojlund will likely spearhead Erik ten Hag’s new-look attack, with captain Bruno Fernandes offering support through the middle, Marcus Rashford cutting in from the left, and Antony taking on defenders on the right.

Fans will expect Hojlund to boost United’s numbers. The Red Devils ranked an underwhelming seventh in Premier League scoring last season, finishing with 36 fewer goals than prolific rivals Manchester City. Rashford was the only to United player break the 10-goal mark during the 2022-23 campaign.

“Rasmus is a truly exceptional talent. He possesses technical and physical attributes which rank him amongst the best players in the world for his age group,” United football director John Murtough said. “Working under Erik ten Hag and his coaches will provide Rasmus with the perfect development platform. Everyone across the club will ensure that he is given the time and all the support required to reach his immense potential.”