Erik ten Hag is known for his diplomatic approach to interviews and sensitive questions, but he couldn't help but crack a smile when he was asked about Manchester United's pursuit of Rasmus Hojlund.
Ten Hag enjoyed an encouraging first season in the United hot seat, although as the campaign wore on it became clear he has plenty of work to do to restore the club to its former glory.
United have set about improving Ten Hag's squad this summer, bolstering the midfield with England star Mason Mount and replacing long-serving goalkeeper David de Gea with Andre Onana.
Last season Ten Hag realised that United are over-reliant on Marcus Rashford for goals, so a new striker has been at the top of his wishlist.It now looks like United chiefs have signed the frontman the manager craves, with Danish striker Rasmus Hojlund set to join from Atalanta.
United will complete the signing of the 20-year-old for €75million plus €10million in performance-related add-ons.
Paris Saint-Germain were keen on Hojlund, but the youngster reportedly agreed to a five-year contract at United a week-and-a-half ago.
The deal has not been officially confirmed yet though, so Ten Hag is reluctant to broach the subject.
Sky Sport's reporter Melissa Reddy did her best to get something out of the Dutch coach during United's pre-season tour in the United States, but he wouldn't budge."I can't talk about this player," Ten Hag said. "I [have] worked a long time in football and I know first we need signings. We have to keep calm and let the professionals do their work."Despite the diplomatic response, United fans noticed that Ten Hag couldn't hide his happiness when Reddy mentioned Hojlund.
"He looks so happy," one fan noticed, while another said: "He can't stop smiling!"
One Twitter user read between the lines, saying: "He doesn't have to say anything more, just look at his face and the way he laughs..."
Another took a bit of a dig at Marcus Rashford, saying: "I’d be smiling this much if I found out my striker could play 90 minutes without getting injured too."
Hojlund scored nine goals in Serie A last season, and - all going well - could make his United debut in a friendly against French side Lens on Saturday.
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