Atalanta BC head coach Gian Piero Gasperini has suggested that Manchester United might have to pay as much as €100m (£86.6m) if they wish to sign Rasmus Hojlund this summer.
The 20-year-old's future is currently the subject of much speculation, with Man United believed to have identified him as their number one attacking target during the current window.
The Red Devils are believed to be lining up an opening offer for the Denmark international amid suggestions that Atalanta are looking for around €70m (£60.1m) for his services.
Gasperini has admitted that a summer move for the forward is possible, but the Atalanta boss wants his club to hold out for the highest fee possible in the "unpredictable" market.
"I don't know if he's leaving, the market is unpredictable. I hope for the club they get €80m (£69.3m), €90m (£77.9m), €100m (£86.6m). The market value changes," Gasperini told reporters.
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Gasperini is hopeful that Hojlund will continue his development at Atalanta, claiming that he "has the characteristics to become one of the strongest strikers in the world".
"I think so, then after that it's difficult here too. He undoubtedly has great talent, but also great room for improvement," he added when asked about the youngster remaining at the club.
"These things are visible in both senses, he must work to improve because he has the characteristics to become one of the strongest strikers in the world. But among the young emerging players in his role, if not the best, he is among the best in Europe."
Man United allegedly viewed Tottenham Hotspur's Harry Kane and Napoli's Victor Osimhen as their leading centre-forward targets earlier this year, but a deal for either this summer is incredibly unlikely.
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Red Devils head coach Erik ten Hag is said to be driving the club's pursuit of Hojlund, believing that the Dane is capable of making an immediate impression despite the fact that he will not turn 21 until next February.
Hojlund made the move to Atalanta from Sturm Graz last summer, penning a five-year deal with the club.
The centre-forward enjoyed a successful first season in Italian football, finding the back of the net on 10 occasions in 34 appearances, in addition to contributing four assists.
Hojlund struck nine goals and registered four assists in 32 Serie A appearances, while he has had experience in the Champions League and Europa Conference League at Sturm Graz and Copenhagen respectively.
Man United have already made two signings during this summer's transfer window, with Andre Onana's arrival from Inter Milan being confirmed on Thursday evening; the Cameroonian has followed Mason Mount to Old Trafford, with the attacker joining from Chelsea.
Matt Law
