Manchester United forward Rasmus Hojlund has played down comparisons with Manchester City rival Erling Haaland, insisting the Norway forward is the ‘world’s best striker’.

Hojlund joined the Red Devils from Atalanta back in August for an initial £64m fee, though this figure could rise to £72m is add-ons are met.

Due to their similar names, statures and hailing from Scandinavia, Hojlund immediately drew unfair comparisons with Haaland.

Speaking to Norwegian outlet TV2, Hojlund took the chance to praise Haaland and dismiss talk of similarities between the two.

“I hope that one day I can reach his level, but right now, I think it is too early,” Hojlund said.

“Erling is in any case the world’s best striker, if not the world’s best footballer. I don’t really want to be compared to him, but I hope that one day I can be like him.

“Who knows? I am only 20 years old. We will have to see what it can end up with.”

Hojlund will take on Haaland for the first time when United host City in the Manchester derby on October 29, and the Denmark international was quizzed about that upcoming meeting.

“As I said, Erling is a class player. He has had some absolutely outstanding years! He must stop when we meet him! He is a crazy football player. I try to learn from him,” he added.

After missing the first few games of the 2023/24 season due to a back injury, Hojlund has come into his own at United in recent weeks.

He’s yet to score in five Premier League appearances, but has already grabbed three outstanding goals in the Champions League and has impressed with his physicality and hold-up play.

When asked how good he could become, Hojlund replied: “I do not know! We will have to see that. I take it one day at a time and try to get better every day.

“I like that there are expectations of me. I enjoy it.”