GdS: The three reasons Milan are pushing for Hojlund over Vlahovic

There are three reasons why Rasmus Hojlund has overtaken Dusan Vlahovic in the race to become AC Milan’s next striker.

With just one week to go until the season starts, Milan still currently only have Santiago Gimenez as a recognised striker at present. The management are working to try and give Massimiliano Allegri another, and Hojlund is the main name.

Why Hojlund over Vlahovic

As La Gazzetta dello Sport report, while waiting for some improvement in Vlahovic’s situation with Juventus, the days pass without any news. It would be self-defeating for Milan to wait until the end of August without anything concrete in hand in such an important position.

This is especially the case given there’s no guarantee that Dusan’s issues with the Bianconeri will be resolved, let alone eased. Much of the issue hinges on the possible return of Kolo Muani, which would allow Juventus greater flexibility in dealing with the Vlahovic situation.

Then there’s the question of his asking price. To avoid a capital loss, Juventus can’t go below €20m. In short, a situation that doesn’t appear to be resolved quickly. The scenario in Manchester is very different: United have already signed Sesko, and will let Hojlund go on loan.

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Another significant point in the Dane’s favour is the fact that Vlahovic earns, which is €12m net per year. The highest paid player among the Rossoneri ranks is Leao, who earns €7m with bonuses.

Even if Vlahovic chose to partially reduce his salary, would he accept the drastic reduction Milan requires? Hojlund earns about a quarter of what Dusan does: from this perspective, there’s really no contest.

Finally, there is the formula. While Juventus would like to sell Vlahovic permanently, so as not to lose him for free next summer, Hojlund could arrive on loan. At least, that’s the formula Milan is aiming for: a loan (costing €4m) with the option to receive a significant fee, around €40m.

It would be a situation that would allow Milan the classic exit route next June: if Atalanta’s Hojlund were to appear again, they’d have to dig deep; if Rasmus were to remain in limbo, he’d be returned to the sender.