With the summer transfer window in full swing, Manchester United are scrambling to secure a top-tier striker—and their plans may be taking a sharp turn.
After discovering that Viktor Gyokeres leans toward joining Arsenal, the Red Devils are now seriously considering a move for Frankfurt’s Hugo Ekitike.
United Turn to Ekitike After Gyokeres Blow
United had been hoping to reunite head coach Ruben Amorim with his former star striker Gyokeres, especially after a disappointing season that saw them finish 15th in the Premier League and fall short in the Europa League final.
But with the Swedish forward reportedly preferring a switch to the Emirates, United’s focus is shifting.
Now, eyes are turning to 22-year-old Hugo Ekitike—a name familiar to many fans thanks to his time at PSG and a standout season with Eintracht Frankfurt.
Ekitike’s Stock on the Rise
Ekitike had a breakout campaign, netting 22 goals across 45 appearances for Frankfurt.
He ended the season as the club’s joint-top scorer in the Bundesliga alongside Omar Marmoush, who left for Manchester City back in January.
Though the French U21 star is attracting interest from Chelsea and Liverpool too, United may be boosted by a recent fan-pleasing comment—when asked which club he supported as a child, Ekitike didn’t hesitate: “Manchester United.”
The £80 Million Hurdle
There’s no denying Ekitike’s price tag is steep—Frankfurt are said to be valuing him around £80 million.
That figure could prove tricky for United, especially given they have no European football to offer as an incentive this summer.
Still, with several striker options thinning out, they may have little choice but to step up negotiations.
Arsenal Still Focused on Sesko
As for Arsenal, while they remain in talks with Sporting over Gyokeres, their priority target is still RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko.
If that pursuit falls through, then Gyokeres may become Plan B again—but United might already be out of the picture by then.
Juventus and clubs from Saudi Arabia are also watching Gyokeres closely, with the striker’s astonishing 54 goals in 52 games last season drawing plenty of attention.
Mbeumo and Semenyo Also on United’s Radar
Ekitike isn’t United’s only target. The club is actively trying to sign Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo as well.
Their initial £55 million offer was rejected, but they remain keen.
Adding to the drama, Tottenham—who just named Thomas Frank as their new head coach—are reportedly preparing to swoop in and hijack the deal.
Meanwhile, Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo is another name being discussed.
Both United and Spurs are eyeing the 24-year-old forward as they look to bolster their attacking options.