Højlund's departure is now inevitable, as Amorim claims he is not worthy of Manchester United. Napoli joins the race to sign him on loan.

Garnacho, Sancho, Antony, and Malacia have long been labeled as unwelcome in the Manchester United dressing room by Ruben Amorim, who has made it clear they are up for sale. Højlund was not included in this group initially, but after Sesko's arrival, even though United insists they will not force the Danish striker out, Amorim’s selections indicate he is being shown the door.

Italian transfer expert Fabrizio Romano asserts that, after missing out on the Premier League opener despite being fit, Højlund’s relationship with Manchester United is “definitely over.” According to Romano, the board is currently working on facilitating his departure in the coming weeks, considering both loan and permanent options. Even if it means taking a loss of over 50%, Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS are determined to move him on before the transfer window closes on September 1.

AC Milan is seen as close to reaching an agreement, but they are unwilling to fully guarantee a £40 million buyout. Instead, they prefer a loan deal with an option—not an obligation—to buy for around £35-40 million. This is not acceptable to either Manchester United or Højlund, both of whom want to ensure a permanent transfer next summer.

Milan is also considering other targets, such as Juventus’ Vlahovic and Al Hilal’s Mitrovic. Højlund, meanwhile, has alternatives too, including Serie A champions Napoli. After former United striker Lukaku suffered a serious injury in a friendly, Antonio Conte is keen to bring in the “freighter” he admires. Lukaku had to withdraw from Napoli’s match against Olympiacos and was later diagnosed with a significant thigh muscle injury, expected to sideline him for about three months.

On Monday, Napoli released a statement: “Following his injury, Lukaku underwent tests at Pineta Grande Hospital, which revealed a major injury to the rectus femoris in his left thigh. The Napoli player has already started rehabilitation and will consult with a surgeon as well.”

Romano confirmed that Napoli has already made contact with Manchester United. “Napoli reached out to United directly today because Lukaku is set to miss more than three months,” Romano said. “Napoli wants to loan Højlund and has asked about the terms. Although there are rumors about Napoli targeting Zirkzee, United wants to keep him, so there have been no talks. Amorim’s plans are very clear.”

Should Højlund join Napoli, he would reunite with former United teammate McTominay, whose £25 million move revitalized his career, earned him a Serie A title, and even a Ballon d’Or nomination from France Football. Moreover, Napoli can offer Højlund Champions League football, which neither Milan nor United can provide.

After being left out of the squad last Sunday, Højlund watched United’s 0-1 defeat to Arsenal from the stands, accompanied by fellow outcast André Onana and injured center-back Lisandro Martínez.

Deep down, Højlund is still reluctant to leave the club he has supported since childhood, and would stay if given the chance—even if opportunities are scarce. However, this is not the view shared by the club or Amorim, both of whom believe parting ways is the best outcome for everyone involved.

Amorim stated: “If everyone is fit, will Højlund’s playing time be limited? At Manchester United, if you don’t do what’s required, a teammate will take your place. I’ve made plenty of mistakes, but if you deserve it, you’ll play.”