Eintracht Frankfurt striker Hugo Ekitike is on Manchester United’s radar and the German club has sent a huge hint over his future.
Manchester United are determined to strengthen their attacking options this summer following a disappointing campaign in front of goal last season.
Ruben Amorim has already made his first move by bringing in Matheus Cunha, while talks are ongoing with Brentford over a deal for winger Bryan Mbeumo.
Securing a proven number nine remains a key priority, with many fans calling for the arrival of an experienced goalscorer like Victor Osimhen or Viktor Gyökeres.
However, those targets now appear out of reach, and United have turned their attention to Eintracht Frankfurt striker Hugo Ekitike. Reports indicate a potential deal could be struck for around £60 million.
Frankfurt send huge hint over Ekitike transfer
It had previously been suggested by Frankfurt’s sporting director that Ekitike would only leave this summer if a club activated his £85 million release clause.
But now, following those reports which claim the deal can be done for over £20 million less than that figure, there is also a hint that Frankfurt are already preparing for life without their star striker next season.
According to a report from Sky Germany, Frankfurt have reached a ‘full agreement’ with Mainz forward Jonathan Burkardt on personal terms for a five-year contract this summer.
It was explained that the two Bundesliga clubs are now negotiating on a fee, which looks to be between £15-20 million, and an agreement on those terms could come soon.
Burkardt scored 19 goals and registered three assists for Mainz last season and appears to be a direct replacement for Ekitike, suggesting that a departure is incoming for the 22-year-old.
United know Frankfurt’s demands for Ekitike
United have been in contact with Frankfurt, according to reports, and so they will likely know what it will take to reach an agreement.
If they were told that it was the release clause or nothing, the Reds would have walked away from the deal quickly as they clearly cannot afford to pay that amount.
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Even if the deal is higher than the reported £60 million, the use of potential add-ons and a favourable instalment plan could allow United to move in for the player.
Of course, there are also other interested parties, such as Liverpool and Chelsea, but those at Old Trafford would be hoping that Ekitike’s support of United would put them in a favourable position if they decide to progress with a deal.
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