Rasmus Hojlund of Atalanta is a player that is on the radars of several top clubs across Europe, including FC Barcelona, ahead of the summer transfer window.
The Blaugrana have been following the Danish international as a possible reinforcement in the No. 9 position amid question marks over their pursuit of Athletico Paranaense wonderkid Vitor Roque.
However, as per the latest report from SPORT, Barcelona might have fallen behind Manchester United in the race to sign Hojlund.
Having joined Atalanta only last summer, Hojlund enjoyed a fine debut campaign in Italy, finishing with 16 goals and seven assists from 42 matches in all competitions.
The 20-year-old striker has been likened to Manchester City superstar Erling Haaland owing to some similarities in their style of play and physique.
Barcelona have been tracking the Denmark international for a while now. However, Manchester United’s entry into the picture could blow the La Liga champions away in the transfer race.
This development comes after Hojlund admitted to feeling proud at being linked with a club like Manchester United as he said: “I must have done things right if they want to sign me. My goal is to get to the top, and Manchester United is one of the best teams in the world.”
Going by Hojlund’s words, it appears that the 20-year-old would love a transfer to Old Trafford, which might put Barcelona at a disadvantage if they do decide to go after his signing. Furthermore, the Catalans are not in a position to compete financially with the Red Devils.
While Barça may have been tracking Hojlund, he was never the club’s primary target. Vitor Roque continues to enjoy the status of being the No. 1 on the list of Blaugrana’s preferred strikers heading into the summer.
However, a move for the 18-year-old sensation can only be considered once Barcelona make a few sales, which is proving to be quite difficult at the moment.
