Napoli Close in on Rasmus Højlund Loan Deal as Lucas Vázquez Heads to Bayer Leverkusen

Transfer activity across Europe is heating up as Napoli move into the final stages of securing Rasmus Højlund from Manchester United, while Lucas Vázquez prepares for a fresh chapter with Bayer Leverkusen.

Højlund Set for Serie A Switch

According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Napoli are closing in on a loan deal with an obligation to buy for the 21-year-old Danish striker. The package is expected to be worth around €45 million, with a long-term contract running until June 2030 already on the table.

Højlund, who joined Manchester United from Atalanta in 2023, has shown flashes of brilliance but struggled to consistently deliver in the Premier League. A return to Italy could provide him with the stability and playing style he needs to fully unlock his potential.

Vázquez Bids Madrid Goodbye for Bundesliga Adventure

In another major move, Lucas Vázquez, the former Real Madrid captain, has agreed on a two-year deal with Bundesliga champions Bayer Leverkusen. The versatile 34-year-old, who can operate both as a defender and winger, has already completed his medical and will officially sign his contract until June 2027 on Tuesday.

This transfer marks the end of an era for Vázquez at the Santiago Bernabéu and the beginning of an exciting challenge under Xabi Alonso’s dynamic Leverkusen side.

Opinion: Smart Moves or Risky Business?

Napoli’s move for Højlund feels like a calculated gamble. At €45m, they are investing in potential rather than proven numbers, but his pace, work rate, and ability to stretch defenses suit Serie A perfectly. If he settles quickly, Napoli may have found the striker to lead their line for years to come.

As for Bayer Leverkusen, bringing in Vázquez is more than just a signing—it’s a statement of intent. His wealth of experience, winning mentality, and versatility could be invaluable as Alonso’s men look to defend their Bundesliga crown and push deeper in Europe. At 34, questions about his stamina will arise, but the leadership he brings could outweigh those concerns.

In the bigger picture, both transfers underline a recurring theme in modern football: clubs are balancing youth potential with veteran experience. Napoli are betting on the future with Højlund, while Leverkusen are solidifying their present with Vázquez.

If both deals click, fans in Naples and Leverkusen are in for a thrilling season.