Manchester United grant Hojlund permanent Napoli move in January

Manchester United have given Napoli the green light to convert Rasmus Hojlund's seasonlong loan into a permanent transfer in the January window, with talks between the two clubs said to be at an advanced stage. The 22 year old Danish striker joined Napoli from Manchester United in September on loan, a deal that includes an option to buy next summer for roughly 38 million. Napoli are reportedly seeking to bring that purchase forward to January, and United are understood to be willing to conclude negotiations in the coming weeks.

Hojlund moved to Old Trafford in 2023 from Atalanta for a fee reported to be in the region of 72 million. He struggled to establish himself at Manchester United and was made available for a loan departure after the club reconfigured its attacking options in the summer. Back in Italy this season, he has produced a stronger start, scoring four goals in his first six appearances for Napoli, form that has reportedly impressed manager Antonio Conte. The striker has missed Napoli’s last three matches with a minor injury, according to club sources.

For Manchester United, accelerating a sale would free funds and reduce the club’s wage bill ahead of what is...