Napoli star Kevin De Bruyne says Rasmus Hojlund has the potential to go on and become a ‘top player’ despite his ‘difficult’ start at Manchester United.

Hojlund arrived in Manchester with weighty expectations on his shoulders after United struck a £72million deal with Atalanta for the striker back in 2023.

But the young centre-forward struggled to live to up his hefty price tag across his first two years at Old Trafford, despite the occasional flash of promise.

Hojlund’s disappointing return of just four goals in 26 Premier League appearances last season convinced United turn to the transfer market to strengthen their attack, with the club splashing out around £200million on Matheus Cunha, Bryan Mbeumo and Benjamin Sesko.

With Hojlund deemed surplus to requirements, the attacker’s camp were given permission to talk to other clubs. Napoli were quick to make their interest known, going on to sign the Denmark international on a season-long loan.

Following in the footsteps of Scott McTominay, Hojlund has enjoyed an eye-catching season in Naples and appears a player reborn.

The 23-year-old has scored 14 goals in 37 appearances for Napoli, finding the target in big moments, both in Serie A and in the Champions League,...