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Milan Transfer News: Striker Search
Manchester United strikers Rasmus Hojlund (left) and Joshua Zirkzee (right)
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Milan Turn to Manchester United Flop as Alternative Striker Option to Victor Boniface

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Milan has made no secret of their desire for a new striker this summer – and Manchester United’s Rasmus Hojlund is the latest name under serious consideration.

The Rossoneri have made an enquiry to explore the feasibility of bringing the 22-year-old Dane back to Serie A, where he first made a name for himself with Atalanta.

Hojlund Transfer Update: Milan Make Enquiry

Sporting director Igli Tare has confirmed Milan are searching for a striker with a similar profile to Olivier Giroud, one capable of leading the line with both strength and intelligence – a profile they are currently lacking.

Speaking at Casa Milan, Tare said, “We are evaluating both in Italy and outside Italy. It is a question of characteristics… He must be a player with completely different characteristics to those of Gimenez, who is not a center-forward like Giroud. We must be good at completing these two things together.”

According to Gianluca Di Marzio, that search has brought Milan back to a familiar face – Hojlund – who joined Manchester United from Atalanta for €72 million in 2023.

With United pushing ahead in talks for Bryan Mbeumo and other attacking targets, there’s growing belief that Højlund could be made available, either on loan or a permanent deal.

Why Rasmus Hojlund Is a Good Fit for Milan’s Attack

Although his first two seasons at Old Trafford have been lackluster, Hojlund still scored 26 goals and registered 6 assists in 95 appearances across all competitions.

His athleticism, pressing ability, and hold-up play would make him a suitable tactical fit for Max Allegri’s system, particularly if Milan reverts to a more direct style.

Milan has already let go of Luka Jovic, while their pursuit of strikers like Victor Boniface and Dusan Vlahovic has stalled due to financial complications. Hojlund’s Serie A experience and potential availability make him an appealing alternative.

The 22-year-old is also reportedly open to a move, and a return to Italy could be the ideal environment to rebuild his confidence and kickstart his career.

Will Manchester United Sell Rasmus Højlund?

Manchester United are currently weighing up striker reinforcements of their own and may view Hojlund as expendable if the right offer comes in. However, the club prefers a permanent sale, while Milan is reportedly exploring a loan with an option to buy.

United’s asking price is expected to remain high due to Hojlund’s age and long contract, which could prove a stumbling block unless the Premier League side softens their stance.

However, their asking price is significantly lower than the €72 million they paid for him, and they are accepting that they will make a considerable loss on the player.

AC Milan Striker Transfer Targets: Who Else Is on the List?

Alongside Hojlund, Milan have considered a number of other forwards:

  • Victor Boniface (Bayer Leverkusen) – likely too expensive

  • Tolu Arokodare (Genk) – scouted but not pursued seriously

  • Nicolas Jackson – priced out after Chelsea demands

While the focus has now shifted toward a new striker, Milan remains active on other fronts. The club is also working on a deal for Brighton’s Pervis Estupinan – also wanted by Manchester United – with super-agent Jorge Mendes helping facilitate talks.

Hojlund Previously Linked with Inter and Juventus

Interestingly, Hojlund had been heavily linked with Inter earlier this summer, before they completed the signing of Ange-Yoan Bonny from Parma.

Juventus was also tracking him, but Milan’s renewed interest may give them the edge, especially if a deal is structured favorably.

Milan is aware that acting quickly could be key to beating any competition. A return to Serie A would surely be the best move for the Danish international after a difficult couple of seasons in England.

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James Lloyd

James is a football writer with a keen eye for Serie A and the tactical nuances of the Italian game. With a background in sports betting, analytics, and performance statistics, he brings a data-driven lens to the beautiful game. James has contributed to leading sports platforms such as Sports Lens and Breaking The Lines, and currently works as a Video Scout for 360 Scouting. Holding a Master’s degree in Sport & Exercise Physiology, he combines academic insight with a lifelong love of the sport.