Manchester United have reached a roadblock in their pursuit of Rasmus Hojlund.
The 20-year-old striker has been heavily linked with United in recent weeks as the club looks to finally end their No.9 woes once and for all, with a player that could, realistically, fill the role for the next decade.
Hojlund is also adamant about making the switch to the 20-time English champions and has already agreed personal terms with the club, meaning a transfer fee is the last remaining factor to overcome – but it’s what’s causing the most problems.
According to The Telegraph, Atalanta value their forward around the £86 million mark, which is pretty outlandish when considering the fact he scored nine Serie A goals last season.
This is seemingly something United have taken on board, as they’re unwilling to pay over £60m for the Denmark international.
Ten Hag’s striker shortlist
The report adds that Erik ten Hag has alternative options in mind should a deal for Hojlund fail to materialise, including Eintracht Frankfurt’s Randal Kolo Muani and Ajax’s Mohammed Kudus.
There may be another twist in the tale of the side’s Harry Kane pursuit too; Tottenham Hotspur owner Joe Lewis has told chairman Daniel Levy that he should sell the England captain this summer if he does not agree to a new contract, as they are unprepared to see him leave for free in 2024.
“You gotta know when to hold ’em, know when to fold ’em, know when to walk away, know when to run …”