Man United Have ‘Held Talks’ to Sign Frankfurt Forward as Striker Hunt Intensifies | OneFootball

Manchester United Explore Hugo Ekitike Deal Amid Summer Striker Hunt

United Begin Ekitike Discussions

Manchester United’s plans to reshape their attacking options this summer have taken a step forward, with the club opening initial talks over a potential deal for Eintracht Frankfurt striker Hugo Ekitike. As reported by Sky Sports, “Man Utd have held initial talks with Eintracht Frankfurt over the signing of striker Hugo Ekitike. There has been no formal bid – but United are exploring the conditions of a deal.”

Ekitike, 22, has long been on United’s radar, with scouts monitoring his development since his emergence at Reims and subsequent move to Paris Saint-Germain. After limited opportunities in Paris, the French forward moved to Frankfurt, where he’s rediscovered rhythm and goalscoring form. With his ability to play across the front line and a sharpness in the final third, he aligns with United’s evolving model of signing dynamic, younger talents with room to grow.

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Flexible Approach to Striker Recruitment

This potential move signals a shift in Manchester United’s recruitment ethos. According to Sky Sports, “It’s understood United have been keeping an eye on Ekitike’s development for a while now,” and that the interest is independent of Rasmus Højlund’s situation.

Despite speculation linking Højlund with a move to Serie A, the Dane has made his intentions clear. “There is interest from Serie A for the Danish international, but he says he wants to fight for his place next season,” the report confirms. Rather than seeking a replacement, United appear to be building competition within the squad, a refreshing departure from their previous reliance on singular options up front.

It’s also noteworthy that personal terms with Ekitike are “not expected to be a problem” and that “the player could be open to a potential move.” This suggests negotiations are less likely to be held up by wage demands or role assurances, a common hurdle in United’s recent transfer dealings.

Competition From Premier League Rivals

Manchester United are not alone in their admiration. Chelsea and Liverpool are also reported to be monitoring Ekitike, further complicating matters. With all three clubs expected to overhaul their forward lines this summer, the next few weeks could see intensified interest in the Frenchman, especially with Frankfurt likely to demand a premium.

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United are not putting all their eggs in one basket. As Sky Sports adds, “Ekitike not the only striker United are looking at. Contact via intermediaries has been made over Sporting’s Viktor Gyokeres.” That dual approach suggests a clear intention to strengthen depth and diversify attacking threats.

Long-Term Thinking Under New Structure

This summer marks the first transfer window with new football leadership in place at Old Trafford, including Jason Wilcox and Omar Berrada. Targeting players like Ekitike, young, with resale potential and tactical flexibility, speaks to a growing coherence in United’s transfer policy.

For too long, United have been reactive in the market. The pursuit of Ekitike, at a stage before a formal bid, shows calculated timing and preparation. Whether a deal is finalised or not, it reflects a new mindset, one grounded in forward planning, rather than last-minute moves.

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For Manchester United fans, this pursuit feels very different from the past. Hugo Ekitike might not be a blockbuster name yet, but he fits the mould of a player who can develop into something special with the right coaching and patience.

There’s a sense of relief that the club are no longer relying solely on marquee signings or ageing stopgaps. Bringing in someone like Ekitike would provide depth and genuine competition for Højlund, rather than forcing another young striker to shoulder the burden alone.

Some supporters will remember the failed Antony Martial trajectory and worry about similarities. But Ekitike appears to have more maturity in his play and experience in adapting to different systems. He doesn’t have to arrive as the finished product, just as someone willing to work, grow, and fight for a place.

And most importantly, the club seem to be operating with more intelligence. Targeting multiple profiles, like Gyokeres, suggests there’s a proper plan in place. Whether it’s Ekitike or someone else, United look to be building with purpose again.