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Jake Stokes

'Next Erling Haaland' sends Chelsea and Man Utd transfer message as Erik ten Hag advantage clear

Rasmus Hojlund, who has been compared to Erling Haaland in the past, has revealed his stance on a potential move to Chelsea and Manchester United this summer. The 20-year-old striker has been heavily linked with a move to the Premier League following his impressive performances for Atalanta.

He featured 32 times for the Italian giants in the Serie A last season, scoring nine goals. The Denmark international's eye-catching displays have reportedly courted the interest of some big clubs across Europe, who are looking to further bolster their options in attack.

Chelsea are said to be in the market for a new striker, with Kai Havertz and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang both facing uncertain futures at Stamford Bridge. The Blues have struggled to replace Didier Drogba over the years, with only Diego Costa and Olivier Giroud coming close to filling the Ivorian's shoes.

So, the likes of Harry Kane, Victor Osimhen, Ivan Toney and Hojlund have emerged as candidates to revamp the west Londoners' frontline. According to Fabrizio Romano, Chelsea have held discussions regarding a potential deal for the Dane, though their priority is the Napoli star.

The Times add that the Blues could secure Hojlund's signature for just £40million this summer – which could prove to be a bargain if he fulfils his potential as the 'next Haaland'. However, when the Atalanta ace was quizzed on his future he remained coy and kept his cards close to his chest.

In an interview with the Danish media during the international break, Hojlund responded to speculation linking him with a move to Old Trafford. As quoted by Football Italia, he said: "It is a huge club, so I must have done something right if it’s rumoured they want me.

"We have to see what happens. From what we all hear, I imagine a lot could happen to quite a few strikers this summer, as many clubs are looking for a number nine.

READ MORE: Chelsea news and transfers LIVE: 'Done deal', Mount exit 'agreed', Onana swap deal, Vlahovic bid

"Something will definitely happen there, and then we’ll have to wait and see if I am included in it. I am very happy to be with Atalanta and we have qualified for Europe, so now we have to wait and see."

As quoted by The Sun in March, Antonio Cassano admitted that he sees the resemblance between Haaland and Hojlund. The former Italy international said: "You think about who he resembles, Haaland quickly comes to mind, but I like Hojlund and I don't like Haaland."

While Chelsea supporters may be excited by the links with Hojlund, he has already admitted his prior allegiance to United. In January, the youngster said: "Now that you ask, I will not hide the fact that I am a huge Manchester United fan.

"So personally, it would be one of the biggest things for me, but of course that doesn’t mean that I would turn down other big clubs if the offers come at some point."

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