Rasmus Højlund joined Napoli on an initial loan deal from Manchester United in the summer but before that, Inter Milan were keen on signing the striker.
Corriere dello Sport claimed that the Nerazzurri were facing financial issues in their move, as the Red Devils weren’t open to loaning out the player early in the window.
Now, Calciomercato have provided some background on why Inter pulled out of their approach for the Manchester United player.
The outlet believe this is largely because of their faith in young striker Francesco Pio Esposito, who impressed last season during a loan at Spezia and has featured prominently this season for Cristian Chivu’s side.
This decision led to Nerazzurri sporting director Piero Ausilio personally calling Højlund to inform him about their decision.
As per CM, the Italian told the striker: “Forgive us, but we’re suspending all negotiations with Manchester United because we’ve seen the right qualities in one of our players that drives us to believe in him.”
This led to Chivu placing trust in Esposito, who also featured at the FIFA Club World Cup and has done a good job this season in the absence of captain Lautaro Martinez.
Inter are now developing the 20-year-old and have no regrets about ending talks with Manchester United for Højlund.
