Fabrizio Romano has disproven an earlier report on Hugo Ekitike, as Manchester United continue to be interested in the striker.
Manchester United have already signed Matheus Cunha to bolster their attack for next season, but it appears Rúben Amorim wants two more additions to his front three.
With Bruno Fernandes possibly dropping deeper next season, another attacking midfield signing could be a real possibility; the top target appears to be Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo.
The Cameroonian will most likely play on the right of the front three, with Amad dropping back to wing back, but his transfer is now in doubt due to Thomas Frank’s move to Tottenham Hotspur.
Jason Wilcox and the recruitment team are also targeting a new centre forward, as the future of Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee remains in question.
Liam Delap from Ipswich Town was the target at the beginning of the summer, but his move to Chelsea has led United to pursue other targets.
Romano denies Ekitike talks
Along with other Premier League clubs, including Chelsea and Liverpool, United are pursuing a deal for Eintracht Frankfurt’s Hugo Ekitike after his impressive 22-goal season in 48 appearances.
Sky Sports reported on Monday afternoon that United had held talks with the German club, with no formal bid yet placed, but the Red Devils “are exploring the conditions of the deal”.
While personal terms aren’t expected to be an issue, a deal for Ekitike could be more difficult than first thought due to his £85 million price tag.
Despite these reports, Fabrizio Romano has claimed that “there is still no club-to-club contact with Eintracht Frankfurt,” but that Ekitike is an option for United.
Like Viktor Gyokeres and Victor Osimhen, a deal for Ekitike may be difficult due to the lack of Champions League football and interest from clubs in the competition.
Hojlund looks set for loan move
After his difficult Premier League campaign, the future of Hojlund is still unknown, but the signings of Cunha and another striker could see him leave the club.
A sale is unlikely for the Danish striker, due to only joining the club two years ago for over £60 million, a fee that United wouldn’t reclaim if they sold him now.
Read More: Erik ten Hag has moved to block Manchester United from signing 146-goal striker this summer
Loaning Hojlund allows United to wait for a season for the Dane to regain his form in front of goal, while giving more chances to young players already at the club.
Chido Obi will want to continue playing first-team football after his impressive performances on United’s post-season tour and Gabriele Biancheri also appears to be hungry for senior football after training with both Canada and Wales in the international break.
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