Manchester United have registered an interest in Eintracht Frankfurt forward Hugo Ekitike for a potential transfer this summer.
Manchester United are planning a major overhaul of their attacking options this summer after a disappointing 2024/25 campaign, which saw them finish a dismal 15th in the Premier League, largely due to their struggles in front of goal.
Bruno Fernandes led the scoring charts with 19 goals, followed by Alejandro Garnacho and Amad, who netted 11 each. Rasmus Højlund contributed 10, but no other player reached double figures in all competitions.
The club has already secured a deal to sign Matheus Cunha from Wolves and are growing increasingly confident of finalising a move for Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo.
However, the search for a reliable central striker remains ongoing. One name attracting serious attention is 22-year-old Eintracht Frankfurt forward Hugo Ekitike, who is firmly on United’s radar after a standout season in Germany, where he scored 22 goals.
United receive fresh update on Ekitike price drop
United have reportedly opened positive discussions with Ekitike’s camp although they are not the only interested party, with both Chelsea and Liverpool looking at the striker.
Ekitike has an £85 million release clause in his contract at Frankfurt but it has been claimed that United and their rivals are not considering a move at that fee and would only attempt a deal if it was lowered.
Unfortunately for those clubs, the German side’s sporting director, Markus Krosche, has suggested that they would rather keep the 21-year-old for another year instead of lowering that £85 million demand.
He told Wiesbadener Kurier earlier this week: “If the price isn’t right, then he’ll simply stay with us. We don’t have to sell Hugo.”
Despite clear interest from the Premier League, it seems clear that Ekitike’s future remains at Frankfurt next season unless he tries to push for a move.
New United striker should walk into improved environment
Some United supporters are wary of spending so much on a striker who is so young due to the difficulties Hojlund has experienced.
However, the issue of lacking experience is much less prominent with more reliable players alongside you. Someone like Ekitike will likely have Cunha and Mbeumo supporting them, and that will help them so much.
Read More: Manchester United icon tipped for managerial role after making three appearances under Rúben Amorim
The issue with Ekitike is much more related to price than experience and the same was probably true for Hojlund when he arrived.
United will likely have to look for alternative options upfront this summer but whoever they get should be introduced to a much better environment.
Make sure to follow UtdDistrict on X, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and TikTok to never miss out on any of our Manchester United content. Our podcast, What the Devil?, is streamed live every Thursday at 12:30 pm (BST) on the United View YouTube channel.