Manchester United Deepen Interest in Hugo Ekitike as Striker Search Intensifies
Manchester United have officially entered the race to sign Eintracht Frankfurt’s highly-rated forward Hugo Ekitike, as their hunt for a new striker gathers momentum ahead of the summer transfer window.
According to Sky Germany journalist Florian Plettenberg, the Red Devils have recently made direct contact with Frankfurt’s hierarchy, engaging in discussions within the past 48 hours to explore the feasibility of a potential deal.
United’s inquiry signals their growing commitment to strengthening their attacking options following a disappointing domestic campaign.
The club’s urgency stems from a lackluster 2024/25 Premier League season, during which United managed to score just 44 goals across 38 league fixtures — a figure well below the standards expected at Old Trafford.
This glaring deficiency in front of goal has prompted manager Rúben Amorim and the club’s new INEOS leadership to prioritize bolstering the striker position as part of their broader squad overhaul.
While Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyökeres remains a top target for Amorim due to their successful partnership in Portugal, negotiations for the Swedish international have proven difficult.
Sporting have made it clear that Gyökeres will not be sold for less than his €100 million release clause, making any potential transfer extremely expensive.
This financial hurdle has encouraged United to consider alternative targets, with Ekitike now emerging as a leading candidate.
Ekitike’s performances last season have captured the attention of multiple European heavyweights.
The 21-year-old French striker played a crucial role in helping Eintracht Frankfurt secure Champions League qualification, contributing an impressive 22 goals and 13 assists across all competitions.
His blend of pace, sharp finishing, creative link-up play, and potential for further development make him an attractive proposition for a club like Manchester United, who are eager to invest in young, high-upside talent.
Financially, Frankfurt are reportedly open to selling Ekitike if an offer of around £85 million is tabled. With the player still under contract until 2029, Frankfurt are in a strong negotiating position, which may ultimately drive up his price.
In addition to Manchester United, both Chelsea and Liverpool have also expressed interest, setting the stage for a possible bidding war if negotiations progress further.
The striker market appears to be heating up significantly. Arsenal have already made a formal bid for Gyökeres, meeting Sporting representatives in Spain to discuss a deal.
However, that opening offer, reportedly worth around €70 million, was swiftly rejected by Sporting president Frederico Varandas, who remains firm on his valuation.
Despite this setback, Arsenal remain determined to continue talks, increasing the pressure on Manchester United to explore alternative options like Ekitike more seriously.
Securing Ekitike’s services would likely have implications for United’s current forward line.
The arrival of another young striker could see Rasmus Højlund face stiffer competition for starting opportunities, potentially impacting his long-term role at the club.
Nevertheless, United seem prepared to make bold decisions as they look to rebuild under Amorim, who is being fully backed by INEOS to reshape the squad and restore the club to its former glory.
With multiple clubs monitoring Ekitike’s availability and Frankfurt holding firm on their valuation, Manchester United may need to act quickly if they hope to fend off rival interest and secure one of Europe’s most promising young forwards before the summer transfer window fully kicks into gear.
