How Manchester United could line up with Hugo Ekitike, Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha | OneFootball

Rubin Amorim could unleash a brand-new front three at Old Trafford next season

Manchester United have turned their attention in the transfer market to Frankfurt talisman Hugo Ekitike and remain in active negotiations to bring in Bryan Mbeumo from Brentford.

Following their worst top-flight season since relegation in 1973-74, United’s longstanding lack of firepower has again been highlighted as a critical weakness.

United scored just 44 goals while conceding 54 , ending the season with a -10 goal difference and a 15th place finish.

Talisman: Ekitike finished with 15 goals and 8 assists last season

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Amorim hopes that signing of Mbuemo and Ekitike will give him a dynamic a new-look forward line.

Ekitike’s arrival, in particular, would address United central striker problem woes as last season, Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee combined for a meagre seven goals last season (three and four respectively).

At Frankfurt, Ekitike initially played alongside Omar Marmoush, but has since thrived as a lone striker, seamlessly adapting to the role after Marmoush’s departure.

The former PSG forward has experience operating in a 3-4-2-1 formation, which aligns with Amorim’s preferred tactical set up.

Comfortable with running the channels and being pushed out wide, despite his slight frame, he is strong on the ball and eager to be involved in build up play.

Despite a relatively slender build, Ekitke is strong in possession, makes intelligent runs in behind and is comfortable drifting wide when needed.

Target: Brentford forward Bryan Mbuemo

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His ability to remain composed in front of goal and score in a variety of ways, makes him a compelling option.

Frankfurt are said to be demanding around £85 million (€100m) for Ekitike, who has four years left on his deal.

If United manage to land both Ekitike and Mbuemo, expect Amorim to deploy a fluid attacking trio of Ekitike, Mbuemo and Cunha with the Frenchman leading the line and the others just behind him.

Ekitike is also capable of interchanging with his fellow attacking players, so expect Cunha and Mbuemo to take turns leading United’s forward line too.

One player who could be affected is Amad Diallo, who has been dubbed the ‘Ivorian Messi’ by fans, was one of United’s few bright sparks last season.

These acquisitions could place in the front three under threat, however Diallo has been equally as effective playing in the right wing back role, and could be deployed here, especially when United play against weaker opposition.

Elsewhere, United captain Bruno Fernandes is likely to play deeper in midfield while Mason Mount, Zirkzee and Hojlund, all have a point to prove and will most likely have to settle for a place on the bench.

United will be looking to recoup money for last season’s loanees Marcus Rashford, Jadon Sancho, Antony, while Alejandro Garnacho looks set to leave.