Man United Have ‘Held Talks’ with £85m Forward Over Summer Move – Report | OneFootball

Manchester United Explore Hugo Ekitike Deal as Striker Search Intensifies

Manchester United’s summer plans under new manager Ruben Amorim are gaining traction, with Sky Sports reporting that the club has held initial talks with Eintracht Frankfurt over striker Hugo Ekitike. While no formal bid has been made, discussions are underway as United explore the framework of a potential deal.

According to Sky Sports‘ Dharmesh Sheth, “personal terms are not expected to be a problem and it’s thought the player could be open to a potential move.” Though early in proceedings, this revelation suggests Ekitike is receptive to the idea of joining the Premier League giants, albeit amid strong competition from the likes of Chelsea and Liverpool.

United’s monitoring of Ekitike dates back several months, highlighting a consistent scouting strategy as the club looks to bolster its forward line. The 21-year-old, once considered among Ligue 1’s brightest attacking prospects during his time at Reims, endured a challenging spell at Paris Saint-Germain but is rebuilding at Frankfurt. His blend of pace, intelligent movement and versatility makes him a viable addition to Amorim’s evolving system.

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Forward Reinforcements Regardless of Hojlund

Significantly, Sky Sports has learned that “United are in the market for a striker regardless of what happens with Rasmus Hojlund.” The Danish forward, who endured an inconsistent debut season, is reportedly attracting interest from Serie A. However, he is not looking to exit. “He says he wants to fight for his place next season.”

This internal competition aligns with Amorim’s preference for fluid attacking dynamics. Rather than replacing Hojlund outright, Ekitike’s arrival would offer tactical variety and lessen the burden on the 21-year-old. In a long and physically demanding campaign, depth in the No.9 position is vital.

Interest in Gyokeres Highlights Ambition

Ekitike is not the only name on United’s radar. Sky Sports reports that “contact via intermediaries has been made over Sporting’s Viktor Gyokeres.” The Swedish striker, who thrived under Amorim in Lisbon, would represent a marquee signing and signals that the club are weighing multiple options before committing.

Both players offer different profiles. Gyokeres is physically imposing and proven in Amorim’s system, while Ekitike is more nimble and potentially more suited to a counter-attacking setup. United’s dual-track pursuit of both suggests they are serious about addressing last season’s goal-scoring inconsistencies.

Amorim’s Influence on Recruitment

Ruben Amorim’s influence in the transfer strategy cannot be overstated. His existing relationship with Gyokeres might tip the scales in that direction, but his openness to developing young talent, such as Ekitike, fits the broader United ethos under the INEOS-led sporting restructure.

The blend of familiarity and potential reflects a move away from short-term fixes, a hallmark of previous windows. Amorim is building for the future, and United’s careful approach to negotiations suggests strategic clarity, not desperation.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

United supporters will be cautiously optimistic. For years, the club’s recruitment has been scattergun, but under Amorim and the INEOS sporting group, we are starting to see a joined-up vision. Ekitike is not just a name plucked from thin air. He fits a profile — young, talented, under-the-radar yet with genuine top-tier potential.

It’s encouraging to hear that “personal terms are not expected to be a problem,” which implies Ekitike wants this move as much as United might. With Hojlund staying to fight for his spot, competition in attack could be the spark he needs to elevate his performances. The idea of rotating between Hojlund and Ekitike in domestic and European fixtures adds welcome depth.

Meanwhile, links to Viktor Gyokeres reinforce fans’ belief that Amorim’s vision is being backed. Should the club pull off either signing, it would mark a huge step in the direction many have long demanded — smart investment, youth-focused, and tactically aligned.

With no formal bids yet placed, there’s still a long way to go, but this is the type of calm, calculated market activity supporters have craved for years. If United can close either deal early, it would set the tone for a much more productive window than we’ve become used to.