Hugo Ekitike has put Manchester United on alert after reaffirming his boyhood admiration for the club, giving the Red Devils a potential edge in the battle to secure his signature this summer.
The Eintracht Frankfurt striker scored 15 Bundesliga goals last season and is attracting interest from several top European clubs, including Chelsea and Liverpool. While United cannot offer Champions League football, they do have a unique advantage: Ekitike’s lifelong affection for the club.
That emotional connection could prove crucial as United prepare to compete with Premier League rivals for the 22-year-old’s signature. However, securing a deal won’t be straightforward. Frankfurt are demanding around €100 million (£85m) for the French forward, who is under contract until 2029.
Despite the high price tag, United have taken the initiative, with Sky Germany reporting they were the first club to contact Frankfurt directly. Liverpool and Chelsea, by contrast, have only held initial talks with the player’s representatives.
Ekitike enjoyed his most productive season to date in 2024–25, scoring 22 goals in all competitions, including four in the Europa League. Before joining PSG in 2022, he impressed with Reims, netting 11 times in Ligue 1 during the 2021–22 season.
Still uncapped at senior international level, Ekitike is seen as a talent with enormous potential—though the price tag has sparked debate over whether he represents value or risk.
Manchester United are also in the race for Viktor Gyokeres, but Arsenal currently lead the chase for the Sporting CP striker. United remain hopeful, especially if talks between the Gunners and Sporting break down.
Gyokeres, 27, is valued at around £68m, and while Arsenal have had an initial bid turned down, discussions continue. Juventus and Saudi side Al Hilal are also monitoring the situation.
If United miss out on Gyokeres, their focus could shift entirely to Ekitike—especially given his age, form, and emotional connection to Old Trafford.