Manchester United have turned their sights firmly towards Hugo Ekitike as they search for a new striker this summer.
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Man Utd accelerate Hugo Ekitike talksThe 22-year-old is one of United's top targetsSporting CP ace Viktor Gyokeres has turned down moveFollow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱WHAT HAPPENED?
Manchester United have accelerated talks in the last two days as they target the signing of Eintracht Frankfurt striker Hugo Ekitike, according to a report by French outlet Foot Mercato. The Red Devils have reportedly intensified discussions with the player's agent and have made contact with the club regarding the potential terms of a deal for the Frenchman.
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A striker is high up on the wish list of Ruben Amorim this summer transfer window, after the struggles of Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee in front of goal in recent months. United must take their time to bring in the right man, though, following the challenges faced by recent big-money purchases at the club.
Target Viktor Gyokeres has reportedly informed former manager Amorim of his decision not to reunite with him at Old Trafford, with Arsenal believed to be in the driving seat for his signature. This puts all the more importance on a move for Ekitike, who is also admired by rivals in the Premier League and in Europe.
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Ekitike was formerly of PSG, where he initially joined on loan in 2022 before departing for a temporary stint at Frankfurt just half a season after signing for the Parisians permanently. The France U21 international joined Frankfurt permanently for €16.5m (£14m) just last summer, but after hitting 22 goals in all competitions the German club are understood to be demanding €100m (£85m) for his services.
Getty Images SportWHAT NEXT FOR EKITIKE AND MAN UNITED?
Ekitike is likely to be on the move this summer, and will likely relish the opportunity to play in the Premier League if a move to England does materialise.
The Red Devils are not competing in the Club World Cup this summer, so will have ample time to make sure they get their transfer business right. After a dismal 15th-placed finish in the Premier League and Europa League final defeat to Tottenham Hotspur, Amorim will know that improvement is needed next campaign if he is to see out the rebuild project at United.