Rasmus Hojlund could be Manchester United's perfect alternative to Ralf Rangnick recommendation

Manchester United have identified Atalanta striker Rasmus Hojlund as their primary target to strengthen their attacking options ahead of the start of the new Premier League season.

Following the capture of Mason Mount from Chelsea, United have now switched their focus to bolstering other areas of the squad. The club plans to recruit a first-choice goalkeeper and a new No.9, identifying Andre Onana of Inter Milan and Hojlund as their leading candidates to fill each role.

The ongoing takeover situation means that United are having to box clever in this summer's transfer window, with half of their starting budget understood to have been wiped out with the addition of Mount. United, ideally, need to step up their efforts to shift some of the deadwood within the squad, though that is a much easier said than done task.

Nevertheless, signing a striker was United's primary objective ahead of the window opening last month and it is a mission they cannot afford to fail to complete. The Reds struggled for goals via an out-and-out striker last season and they cannot find themselves in the same scenario in 2023/24.

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READ MORE: United advancing with Andre Onana deal

United have identified Hojlund, 20, as an attainable target and football director John Murtough is now locked in discussions with Atalanta to see if a deal is doable. The Danish international, who has already held talks with Erik ten Hag, is considered as one of the most exciting prospects in European football.

Recent reports have suggested that Atalanta value Hojlund at just north of £85million, meaning there could be work for Murtough to do