RASMUS HOJLUND has attracted huge interest from Napoli after former Manchester United striker Romelu Lukaku was ruled out for three months.
The reigning Serie A champions have asked about a loan deal for the Denmark striker, who is admired by manager Antonio Conte.
It comes hours after fellow Italian side AC Milan officially confirmed their interest in Hojlund, 22, who is open to a move and has been on Fulham’s radar.
Hojlund was left out of the matchday squad for United’s 1-0 home defeat by Arsenal in their season opener on Sunday.
It is understood boss Ruben Amorim took the decision amid intense speculation over the striker’s future.
Benjamin Sesko, who came on as a substitute, is expected to be Amorim’s first choice in the position following his recent arrival from RB Leipzig, with Matheus Cunha ideally one of the two No10s in Amorim’s system.
United are believed to be asking for £40million for the Dane, but they could entertain a loan under the right conditions.
Napoli are now considering making a move for Hojlund after Lukaku, 32, limped off the pitch during a pre-season friendly against Olympiacos last week.
Ex-Old Trafford flop Lukaku is expected to be sidelined for three months after tearing a muscle in his thigh.
Napoli released a statement on Monday, which read: “Following the injury, Romelu Lukaku underwent tests at Pineta Grande Hospital, which revealed a high-grade injury to the rectus femoris muscle in his left thigh.
“The Napoli player has already begun rehabilitation and will also undergo surgical consultation.”
Should Hojlund be brought in to fill Lukaku’s place, he’ll reunite with former United teammate Scott McTominay, who turned his career around in Italy after signing for £25m.
McTominay, 28, has excelled since joining the Naples outfit last summer, winning the Serie A Player of the Year award and a Ballon d’Or nod.
Napoli can offer Hojlund European football that the Red Devils can’t, with Conte’s men competing in the Champions League for a second straight season.
Hojlund, who joined for £72m two years ago, was United’s main striker last season but scored just 10 goals in 52 games.
His debut campaign brought 16 goals after his move from Italian side Atalanta.
Teenager Chido Obi, 17, featured for the first team last season although it is unlikely he would be regarded as a regular starter, with his involvement likely to come from the bench.
Meanwhile, Jadon Sancho has turned down Roma’s £20m offer to United, with the winger set to explore other options.
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