Manna Calls Hojlund Napoli Move A Formality

Napoli sporting director Giovanni Manna says a permanent deal is expected
Hojlund has nine goals in 20 Napoli appearances on loan from United
A Champions League clause could trigger an obligation to buy

Napoli sporting director Giovanni Manna has said Rasmus Hojlund’s permanent move from Manchester United is likely to be a “formality.”

Hojlund joined the reigning Serie A champions on loan last summer. The Denmark striker has scored nine goals in 20 appearances, including two in Sunday’s 2 0 win away at Cremonese.

Napoli sit third in Serie A, currently holding one of Italy’s four Champions League places. That position matters because Hojlund’s agreement includes a route to a permanent transfer if Napoli qualify.

Manna said Napoli worked hard to complete the loan move, stressing that the player’s preference was decisive.

“We did everything we could to sign him,” Manna told Italian newspaper Corriere dello Sport.

“There were more storied clubs interested, but his will was crucial, and we are proud of it.

“There’s an option to buy and an obligation to buy if we qualify for the Champions League.

“The player considers himself a Napoli player, and the same goes for us. This is extremely important.”

Manna was then asked directly if the permanent transfer should be viewed as a “formality.” He answered in the affirmative.

“As of today, I think so.”

Hojlund joined United from Atalanta in August 2023 for £64 million, plus up to £8 million in add ons. He scored 14 goals in 62 Premier League appearances.

Reports have suggested the fee for a permanent move to Napoli would be about €44 million.

WRITTEN BY

Jarrod

Jarrod Partridge is the Founder of Futbol Chronicle and an accredited journalist with over 30 years of experience following international football. A member of the AIPS International Sports Press Association, Jarrod has covered matches at stadiums around the world, bringing first-hand insight to every match report, player profile, and tactical analysis he writes.