Manchester United are reportedly considering a significant loss on Danish striker Rasmus Hojlund, potentially selling him for around £30 million this summer. This comes just two years after the club splashed out up to £72 million to acquire him from Atalanta. The move signals a potential shift in United's attacking strategy and a clear intention to bring in a new, more impactful striker.

The decision to entertain offers for Hojlund is a surprising one, given Erik ten Hag’s initial faith in the young Dane. However, his performances this season haven't consistently matched the hefty price tag, and with United seeking to strengthen their squad and potentially balance the books, a sale could be deemed necessary. While Hojlund possesses undeniable raw talent and a willingness to work hard, his goalscoring record has fallen short of expectations, particularly given the demands of leading the line for a club of Manchester United’s stature.

The financial implications are substantial. Selling Hojlund for £30 million would represent a loss of approximately £42 million – a considerable sum for any club. It highlights the risks inherent in big-money transfers and the pressure on players to deliver immediately. However, sources close to Old Trafford suggest that the potential loss is outweighed by the opportunity to invest in a more reliable goalscorer.

So, who is United targeting? Reports indicate that several high-profile strikers are on their radar, including Ivan Toney (Brentford) and potentially a move for a proven Premier League goalscorer. Toney, despite his recent suspension, remains a tempting option due to his proven ability to find the back of the net and his physicality. Other names are rumoured, but United’s priority will be to secure a player who can immediately improve their goalscoring output and provide a focal point for their attack.

The timing of this potential sale and subsequent signing is crucial. United need to act swiftly to avoid being left short of options upfront. The arrival of a new striker could significantly alter the dynamic of the squad and provide a much-needed boost to their hopes of securing a Champions League spot. The summer transfer window promises to be a pivotal period for Manchester United, and the future of their attack hangs in the balance.

Key questions remain: Will Hojlund be sold? Who will United sign as his replacement? And can the new arrival justify the investment and fire United back into the top four? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain – Manchester United are prepared to make bold moves to reshape their squad and challenge for honours.