Man United handed boost in Rasmus Hojlund pursuit as Atalanta close in on £86m-rated striker’s replacement, after edging ahead of Everton in the race for El Bilal Toure

Atalanta are hopeful of signing El Bilal Toure ahead of Everton. The Almeria striker is lined up to replace Manchester United target Rasmus Hojlund.

United have been keeping tabs on Hojlund in recent weeks as Erik ten Hag focuses on adding a new striker to his squad ahead of the new season.

The main sticking point with the deal has been the fee involved, with Atalanta seeking £86m to allow Hojlund to leave, while United are determined not to spend more than £60m on him.

However, Atalanta are already preparing for life without Hojlund after stepping up their interest in Bilal Toure.

Reports suggest they are edging closer to signing the 21-year-old after reaching an agreement with Almeria.

Serie A side Atalanta are closing in on signing Almeria forward El Bilal Toure ahead of Everton

Bilal Toure is being lined up as a replacement for Man United target Rasmus Hojlund

His move to Atalanta could be good news for Erik ten Hag as United pursue a deal for Hojlund

Bilal Toure scored seven goals in 21 appearances for Almeria last season as they avoided relegation from LaLiga by a single point.

He has also attracted interest from Everton, with the Toffees holding advanced talks with him over the weekend.

However, Atalanta have now edged ahead in the race for his signature and look set to entice him to Serie A.

What this means for Hojlund’s future is unclear, but United will hope they can now move forward and land one of their primary targets.

Hojlund is still only 20, but made a big impression in his first season in Italy last term.

He netted 11 times across all competitions as Atalanta finished fifth to secure a place in the Europa League.

He also made his international debut for Denmark during the course of the campaign, and has six goals in as many games for his country to date.