MANCHESTER United today completed the signing of Denmark striker Rasmus Hojlund from Atalanta, moments after Chelsea signed Robert Sanchez from Brighton and Manchester City sealed a deal for Josko Gvardiol from RB Leipzig.
The 20-year-old Hojlund, who joined the Serie A side in 2022 and scored 10 goals in 34 appearances last season, switched to Old Trafford on a five-year deal believed to be worth £72m in total — £64m guaranteed and £8m in add-ons.
He was presented to Manchester United fans at Old Trafford just before the kick-off of their pre-season friendly against Lens, which Erik ten Hag’s side won 3-1.
“It is no secret I have been a fan of this great club since I was a small boy,” Hojlund said.
“I dreamed of walking out at Old Trafford as a Manchester United player.”
Hojlund is United manager Ten Hag’s third summer signing after Mason Mount arrived from Chelsea for £55m and Inter Milan goalkeeper Andre Onana joined for £47.2m.
Hojlund will miss the opening weeks of the 2023/2024 season after sustaining an injury during pre-season training with Atalanta.
“I am incredibly excited by this opportunity to turn a dream into a reality, and I am determined to repay the faith the club has shown in me,” the youngster added.
“It is still early in my career, but I know I am ready to make this step up and play with this group of world-class players.
“Once I had spoken to the manager, I knew this environment would be perfect for my development; I am relishing the opportunity to work with one of the best coaches in the world.
“Under his guidance and support I know that I am capable of achieving great things together with my new team-mates at this special club.”
Also today, Premier League champions Manchester City completed the signing of Croatia centre-back Gvardiol on a five-year deal for €90m (£77m).
He is the second most expensive defender of all time after Harry Maguire, who joined Manchester United for £80m from Leicester City in 2019.
“I have always dreamed of one day playing in England,” the 21-year-old said.
“To be doing so now with Manchester City – after the season they have just had – is a real honour for me.
“Anyone who saw Manchester City play last season knows they are the best team in the world. To win the Treble says everything you need to know about the quality this team has.”
The third signing announced on a busy Saturday was goalkeeper Sanchez from Brighton to Chelsea for £25m.
The 25-year-old Sanchez, who made 23 Premier League appearances for Brighton last season before losing his starting spot to Jason Steele, put pen to paper on a seven-year deal.
“Robert has repeatedly proved himself in the Premier League and been capped by his country,” Chelsea’s sporting directors Paul Winstanley and Laurence Stewart said in a statement.
“We are excited to watch him work with Mauricio Pochettino and his coaching team during the season ahead.”
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