Hojlund latest: Where the striker is likely to go with his future 'over' at Man Utd

Rasmus Højlund’s future at Manchester United appears to be over after the Danish striker was left out of the squad for the club’s Premier League opener against Arsenal.

The decision by manager Ruben Amorim is widely viewed as a clear statement that the 22-year-old is no longer central to United’s plans.

Having arrived only last summer for a hefty £72 million fee from Atalanta, Højlund has struggled to make an impact in Manchester, showing flashes of talent but never cementing a regular role.

Reports suggest that Amorim’s selection choice was deliberate, with sources close to the club indicating that United are actively exploring both loan and permanent exits for the forward.

Financial factors also play a role: the club needs to balance its books after a busy summer window, and moving Højlund on would help ease both the wage bill and Financial Fair Play pressures.

The most serious interest comes from AC Milan, who are pushing to bring Højlund back to Serie A, reported TalkSPORT.

Negotiations are progressing over a potential loan with an option to buy, a structure that would allow Milan to secure a long-term solution up front while limiting short-term financial risk.

United, meanwhile, are holding out for a package that could recoup part of their original outlay, with figures in the region of €35-45 million being discussed.

Other clubs are circling. Borussia Dortmund and Inter Milan have made inquiries, while Fulham are monitoring the situation as they search for a proven striker in the Premier League.

Former United manager Erik ten Hag, now at Bayer Leverkusen, is also said to be interested in a reunion, though that possibility remains speculative.

Despite these links, Milan remain the clear front-runners. Højlund’s previous success in Italy, his style of play, and the club’s need for a mobile, powerful forward make the move an appealing fit for both parties.

In truth, the writing appears to be on the wall at Old Trafford. Højlund showed glimpses of promise in pre-season, scoring in a 4–1 win over Bournemouth, but competition from new arrivals like Benjamin Šeško and Matheus Cunha has left him sidelined. A switch to Milan, on loan with a buy clause, now looks the most probable outcome.