Manchester United are reportedly open to selling Rasmus Højlund this summer, a move that raises questions given the player’s age, potential, and previous investment. After a difficult 2024/25 campaign marked by inconsistency and a sharp decline in confidence, Højlund appears to be on the chopping block—despite showing glimpses of his capabilities.
While manager Ruben Amorim has not publicly addressed Højlund’s future, multiple reports indicate that United would be willing to offload the Danish forward for around £30 million—less than half of the £64 million (plus £8 million in add-ons) the club paid just two years ago.
Clubs from Serie A and the Bundesliga, including Napoli, Juventus, and RB Leipzig, have expressed interest in the 22-year-old striker. But would selling him now—at such a steep discount—be a short-sighted decision?
Why Højlund Deserves a Second Chance at Old Trafford
Despite a rocky season, Højlund seems determined to fight for his place at the club. Following a goal in a recent 4–1 pre-season win against Bournemouth in Chicago, the striker made his intentions clear:
“The most important thing for me is just to keep working hard and stay focused and then obviously we’ll see what happens. My plan is very clear and that is for me to stay and fight for my spot, whatever happens.”
These comments suggest a player with the right mindset—someone eager to stay and prove his worth rather than leave in defeat.
It’s worth remembering that just months ago, Højlund showed immense promise, scoring eight goals in eight matches between December 2023 and February 2024. At his best, he is fast, powerful, and a constant threat in the box.
However, his form tends to come in waves. That pattern of inconsistency dates back to his days at Atalanta. When confident, he bullies defenders and finishes with conviction. But when out of form, his first touch becomes erratic, and his decision-making suffers.
Rather than cutting their losses, Manchester United might benefit from giving Højlund more time to develop—especially under the right coaching. With three years remaining on his contract, his value is protected, and there’s still time for him to deliver on his early promise.
The Economic and Strategic Risk of a Premature Sale
Selling Højlund for £30 million would represent a significant financial loss. Considering the size of the initial investment and the player’s youth, the decision to sell now could reflect poorly on United’s long-term transfer strategy.
Other clubs still see the upside. If multiple teams are willing to bet on his strengths and potential, perhaps United are rushing to offload a player who simply needs more development time.
Højlund’s movement, pace, and physicality are undeniable. His issue lies in consistency and mental resilience—qualities that can improve with age and the right support. A more patient approach might allow United to salvage a valuable asset, or at least improve his market value before any future sale.
A Role as an Understudy Could Work
If Manchester United are concerned about relying on Højlund as the primary striker next season, there is a logical middle ground. With the club linked to names like Benjamin Šeško, Højlund could be repositioned as a second-choice striker. The reduced pressure could give him room to grow, both technically and mentally.
This approach would also align with sound financial planning. Instead of writing off an expensive investment, United could allow more time for the player to develop into a reliable option, avoiding an unnecessary loss.
Should Other Premier League Clubs Consider a Bid?
Assuming United proceed with a sale, Premier League clubs may want to take advantage of what could be a bargain opportunity. Aston Villa, for instance, are actively looking for a striker and have been linked with a £55 million bid for Samu Omorodion. Højlund would provide a similar profile at almost half the cost.
Fulham, with Rodrigo Muniz’s future uncertain, could benefit from a younger attacking option, while West Ham continue to search for a consistent No. 9. At £30 million, Højlund represents a manageable risk for many Premier League teams—especially given his top-flight experience and flashes of quality.
Conclusion: Selling Now Could Be Costly
Rasmus Højlund is not yet the finished product. But he is still only 22 and possesses attributes that are difficult to find in a modern striker. If he can improve his composure and consistency, there’s every chance he becomes a highly valuable player.
Manchester United’s willingness to sell could come back to haunt them—particularly if Højlund finds his rhythm elsewhere. It might be wiser to give him one more season to prove his worth than to endure another chapter in the club’s long list of transfer missteps.
