Napoli’s Giovanni Manna Anticipates Rasmus Højlund’s Permanent Transfer

Giovanni Manna, the sporting director of Napoli, views the permanent transfer of Rasmus Højlund from Manchester United as a “formality.”

Højlund has been on loan with the Serie A champions since last summer, where he has made a significant impact by scoring nine goals in 20 appearances, including a notable double in Sunday’s 2-0 victory against Cremonese.

Currently, Napoli holds the third position in Serie A, securing one of Italy’s coveted Champions League spots.

“We did everything we could to secure his signing,” Manna shared with the Italian newspaper Corriere dello Sport. “Although several prominent clubs expressed interest, Højlund’s desire to join us was paramount, and we take great pride in that.”

Manna elaborated on the transfer specifics, stating, “There is an option to buy, and an obligation to purchase should we qualify for the Champions League. The player perceives himself as a Napoli player, and we feel the same way. This mutual sentiment is exceedingly important.”

When asked if Højlund’s permanent transfer to Napoli was indeed just a “formality,” Manna affirmed, “As of today, I believe so.”

Højlund was acquired by Manchester United from Atalanta in August 2023 for £64 million ($86 million), with additional potential add-ons of up to £8 million ($11 million). During his time at United, the 22-year-old scored 14 goals in 62 Premier League appearances. Reports indicate that the fee for his transfer to Napoli is expected to be around €44 million (£38 million, $51 million).

In the meantime, Benjamin Sesko, who replaced Højlund at Manchester United, has faced challenges adapting to the Premier League, having scored only twice since his transfer from RB Leipzig in a deal worth up to £73.7 million ($100 million).