Rasmus Hojlund makes feelings very clear on permanent Man Utd exit

Rasmus Hojlund continues to catch the eye for Napoli and the Danish striker has now spoken out on leaving Manchester United on a permanent basis for the Italian side

Rasmus Hojlund remains keen to explore Naples with the forward on the verge of a permanent move to the city's football club. The striker joined Napoli on loan from Manchester United in the summer.

They have an option to make the deal permanent, albeit that will become an obligation should Antonio Conte’s men qualify for next season’s Champions League. Hojlund, 23, is playing a role in the push for a European spot, having netted 12 goals in all competitions for Napoli this term.

And the Dane has underlined his desire to remain in the Italian city for the foreseeable future. Speaking to Il Mattino, he said: “l'm not in the centre, but I’m dying to explore the alleys and heart of Naples, but I know it won’t be easy to get around. I sense the incredible energy the city exudes.

“I can feel it every moment – its vitality and personality are everywhere, not just at Maradona when we play. It’s an underestimated city, not even a little dangerous, despite so many rumours from afar.”

Hojlund’s form this season is at odds with his most recent performances for United. He netted just four times in the Premier League last season, albeit scored another six times in the Europa League.

Asked to explain his form, he added: “I’m like ketchup. When the sauce doesn’t come out, you’re there, struggling to get it out, then suddenly it all comes out at once.

“It’s the same when you don’t score for a long time. It’s an incredible joy to score, but when the team and the coach believe in you, the goal is like a flower that has to bloom, it’s just a matter of time.”

Away from his goals, Hojlund has already claimed silverware in Naples, having helped the club to the Italian Super Cup. And he is in no mood to stop there.

He added: “I came here because I wanted to win trophies, and winning the Italian Super Cup was proof that my choice was the right one.”

Hojlund will be aiming to extend his form this weekend with Napoli set to travel to Verona. The reigning Italian champions currently sit third in Serie A but look highly unlikely to claim the title once more, having fallen 14 points behind leaders Inter Milan following a 2-1 defeat to Hojlund’s former club Atalanta at the weekend.