Manchester United target Rasmus Hojlund has been left out of the Atalanta squad to face Bournemouth on Saturday.
The Denmark striker has already agreed personal terms with the Red Devils and is keen on making the switch.
talkSPORT understands United are close to agreeing a fee with the Italian side after indicating they will pay £50million.
With talks at an advanced stage, Hojlund will not take part in the pre-season friendly at the Vitality Stadium to avoid any risk of injuries.
Manager Erik ten Hag has been desperate to sign the 20-year-old, making him United’s top target to lead the line.
Midfielder Mason Mount and goalkeeper Andre Onana have already made the switch to Old Trafford this summer but a new striker remains the priority.
Anthony Martial is currently the only senior No.9 at the club – and the Frenchman does not appear to be Ten Hag’s preferred option.
Besides an alarming injury record, Martial has not come close to scoring double-figures in the Premier League since 2020.
United lost 2-0 to Real Madrid on Wednesday, failing to score from 14 attempts, and asked if their attacking woes highlighted the need for a new striker, Ten Hag said: “Absolutely.”
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