Man United favourites to sign ‘the new Erling Haaland’

Manchester United’s hopes of completing a cup treble this season were ended on Thursday as they were knocked out of the Europa League by Sevilla. 

The Red Devils travelled to Andalusia for the second leg of their quarter-final tie, but Erik ten Hag’s produced a dismal display and were dumped out after a 3-0 defeat to their Spanish opponents.

Now, United must turn their attention to their FA Cup semi-final against Brighton and Hove Albion on Sunday.

In the meantime, there could be some good news on the horizon for The Red Devils.

According to The Mirror, United are leading the race to sign Atalanta forward Rasmus Hojlund, who has been nicknamed ‘The new Erling Haaland’.

Hojlund, 20, has been in fine form for the Serie A side this season, scoring nine goals in 30 matches across all competitions.

The young striker joined Atalanta from Austrian side Sturm Graz last summer, but is already being linked with a move away from his current side.

Hojlund is wanted by Manchester United

The report claims that United have contacted the Italian club to enquire about Hojlund’s availability, and their pursuit of the player has been boosted by the news that Karim Benzema has signed a new contract with Real Madrid.

It had previously been reported that United and Real were the two sides that had made contact in regard to the player, but the Spanish side’s interest may well have cooled now following the news that Benzema is staying put.

Hojlund made his international debut for Denmark during a Nations League game against Croatia last year, and has now scored five goals in four senior matches for his country.

United are set to be in the market for a new striker this summer as they look for a long-term replacement for Cristiano Ronaldo, who departed the club towards the end of last year.

Wout Weghorst joined the club on loan from Burnley in January, but the Dutchman is expected to return to Turf Moor this summer and The Red Devils will instead look to sign a world-class striker.

It is claimed that Hojlund is currently on a six-man shortlist of strikers that United could look to sign.