Manchester United look primed to repeat an iconic transfer announcement with incoming striker Rasmus Hojlund. The Red Devils’ plans to unveil Hojlund have been struck by a delay, prompting a change of plans that could culminate this weekend.
Erik ten Hag is set to land the goalscorer he has craved all summer after United agreed a deal worth £64million plus £8m in add-ons with Atalanta.
But the announcement many expected at the start of the week hasn’t arrived, sparking some fears there could be an issue with the transfer.
That’s reportedly not the case, though there have been some hiccups in the paperwork, medical and media phase of Hojlund’s arrival.
According to the Manchester Evening News, the 20-year-old travelled to Carrington later than planned on Tuesday after landing at Manchester Airport just after 4pm.
United had planned for him to meet some fans – as Mason Mount did on his signing day – and conduct media duties for the club’s social media platforms and website.
However, the club cancelled the plans after his late arrival disrupted the day’s schedule, and alternative announcement plans are said to have been laid.
The report claims United are considering unveiling Hojlund when they face Lens in their penultimate pre-season friendly at Old Trafford on Saturday.
The Denmark international could meet the supporters for the first time by making his way onto the pitch before kick-off or at half-time.
And it would draw comparisons to Raphael Varane’s incredible arrival ahead of the 2021/22 season opener against Leeds United.
United waited until 10 minutes before the clash before announcing Varane by introducing him onto the pitch, intensifying what was already a boisterous atmosphere.
It helped fire United to a 5-1 win against their bitter rivals, handing Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side a dream start to the campaign.
Of course, a friendly against Ligue 1 opposition doesn’t carry the same importance, but the club’s decision to potentially wait to announce Hojlund makes sense.
Whether he features in Sunday’s pre-season curtain-closer against Athletic Club in Dublin remains to be seen.
But he should be in line to make his debut when Wolves visit Old Trafford in the final game of the Premier League’s opening weekend.
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