Milan Eye Rasmus Hojlund as Cheaper Vlahovic Alternative Amid Man Utd Uncertainty

Allegri’s Striker Search Heats Up as Hojlund Becomes a Viable Target for Milan

AC Milan’s summer rebuild is starting to take shape, and one of the key areas that coach Massimiliano Allegri wants to address is up front. With Dusan Vlahovic proving to be a complicated and costly pursuit, the Rossoneri have turned their attention to a more attainable name — Rasmus Hojlund.

And now, thanks to developments at Manchester United, Milan’s hopes of landing the Danish striker have received a timely boost.

According to reports from Sky Sports and Corriere dello Sport, United would be willing to sanction a loan deal for Hojlund if they succeed in signing RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko before the end of the window. For Milan, that presents an opportunity they’re keen not to miss.

Hojlund’s Rocky Start at Old Trafford

It wasn’t that long ago that Hojlund was one of Europe’s hottest striker prospects. After a breakout season at Atalanta where he scored nine goals and registered four assists, Manchester United paid a staggering €80 million to bring the Danish forward to Old Trafford in the summer of 2023.

Fast forward two seasons, and things haven’t gone quite according to plan. Hojlund has struggled for consistency and confidence in the Premier League, managing just 26 goals in 95 appearances. Despite showing flashes of potential — particularly in European competition — he has failed to convince United that he can be their long-term solution up front.

The Red Devils are now actively looking for a more clinical No.9. If Benjamin Sesko arrives at Old Trafford, Hojlund could find himself pushed further down the pecking order — and out of Erik ten Hag’s plans entirely.

That has put Milan on alert.

Milan’s Plan: Loan with Option to Buy

Hojlund

The Italian giants are preparing a formal approach for Hojlund, and it’s understood they are ready to offer a loan deal with an option to buy set at €35 million — a far cry from what United paid only two summers ago.

From Milan’s perspective, it makes sense. Hojlund still has plenty of upside at just 22 years old, and his salary demands are considerably lower than Vlahovic’s, making him a financially smarter choice in a window where Milan are operating with strategic caution.

Massimiliano Allegri — back at the helm after his Juventus exit — sees the Denmark international as a valuable addition to a new-look attack that already includes Santiago Gimenez, the Mexican striker who recently committed his future to the San Siro despite rumors of a move abroad.

Vlahovic Still the Dream, but Hojlund More Realistic

Hojlund

Make no mistake: Dusan Vlahovic remains Milan’s number one target. The Serbian forward has long been admired by Allegri, who coached him at Juventus and remains convinced of his potential to be a world-class No.9.

But talks with Juve have stalled, with the Turin club holding firm on their valuation — believed to be well north of €60 million. Milan, cautious not to overpay, have so far refused to meet those demands.

As the season approaches, Milan can’t afford to wait around. With their Coppa Italia clash against Bari coming up on August 16, Allegri wants his squad in place — especially his strike force.

That’s why the interest in Hojlund is intensifying. He might not have the pedigree or consistent scoring record of Vlahovic just yet, but he’s got age, athleticism, and a point to prove.

Roma and Juventus Also in the Mix

Milan aren’t the only club keeping tabs on Hojlund’s situation.

Reports suggest Roma boss Gian Piero Gasperini — who coached Hojlund during his breakthrough campaign at Atalanta — would love to work with the striker again. A move to the capital could offer a more familiar tactical setting and a coach who already understands how to get the best out of him.

Juventus are another name linked, though their new manager Igor Tudor reportedly sees Hojlund only as a Plan B option if the club fails to secure Randal Kolo Muani from Paris Saint-Germain.

So while Milan might not be the only suitor, they could be the most serious — and the best placed to offer regular football and a fresh start.

A Fresh Chapter for Hojlund?

For Hojlund, the chance to return to Italy could be exactly what he needs.

He found success in Serie A before and was admired for his direct running, sharp movement, and willingness to press from the front. The pace of the Premier League has clearly been a challenge, but at 22, there’s no reason he can’t bounce back.

It’s easy to forget how quickly fortunes change in football. One strong season can transform the narrative — and with the right system and trust from the coaching staff, Hojlund still has every chance of becoming a top-level striker.

A move to Milan — whether temporary or with a view to something permanent — might just be the reset he’s looking for.

For now, all eyes are on Manchester United’s next move. If Sesko arrives, expect the phone to ring in Milan. And if Hojlund answers, it could be the start of a fascinating new chapter in his young career.