‘Impossible to sign’ – Fabrizio Romano slaps Man Utd transfer down after ‘stupid bid’ explained

Claims Man Utd lodged a “stupid bid” for a Serie A ace that had no chance of succeeding have been clarified, with Fabrizio Romano revealing the real number that can get a deal done.

Erik ten Hag has his sights set on making three specific signings this month. Mason Mount will scratch the central midfield itch and has undergone a medical today. The latest on United’s imminent deal – including his colossal pay rise – can be found here.

Elsewhere, Ten Hag wants a goalkeeper who’s more comfortable in possession and a lethal new striker. A centre-back would complete the set, though finances will dictate how many United can sign.

Regarding the striker search, widespread reports claimed Harry Kane and Victor Osimhen were Ten Hag’s preferred targets.

However, with ESPN revealing United’s budget is tight and The Metro suggesting it’s capped at £120m (prior to player sales), a compromise may be required.

As such, cheaper alternatives such as Randal Kolo Muani and Rasmus Hojlund have been heavily linked with United. Indeed, news from Italy on Saturday claimed an official bid had been lodged for Hojlund.

The 20-year-old plies his trade for Atalanta and is coming off the back of a breakthrough campaign for both club and country.

Hojlund notched 16 goals across all competitions between time at Sturm Graz and Atalanta last year. His first six caps for Denmark produced an impressive six goals.

Corriere dello Sport’s print edition on Saturday claimed United had tested the waters with a bid worth €35m. The publication claimed that was below Atalanta’s €45m-plus valuation.

However, addressing the rumours while speaking on his YouTube channel, Fabrizio Romano has revealed all is not what it seems.

No Man Utd bid, but interest is hot

Indeed Romano declared that as far as he’s aware, Man Utd have made no such offer. What’s more, there’d be no reason to try their hand with a “stupid bid” of €35m given Atalanta’s true asking price is a much loftier €60m-€70m.

“From what I’ve heard, Man Utd have never submitted this kind of proposal,” said Romano.

“Maybe it could be some kind of old rumour from December or January, because Man Utd now know very well that the player is impossible to sign for €35m.

“Atalanta always wanted around €60m-€70m for Hojlund, and even that might not be enough to sign him right now.

“So this is why €35m would be a stupid bid and Man Utd never did that.”

But while talk of a concrete bid has been quashed, Romano did stress the Danish hitman is very much on United’s radar.

“Rasmus Hojlund remains on the list at Man Utd, “continued the reporter. “He’s really appreciated by Man Utd.

“They believe he has an incredible potential, but they also want to pay the real money he’s worth [right now].

“So this is why there is still no agreement with Atalanta, but there are positive conversations on the player’s side and Hojlund would be super keen on joining Man Utd.

“But still no official bid at the moment and for sure not for €35m.”

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