United still want to sign a striker this summer and Gyokeres is the ideal choice to lead the line.placeholder image
United still want to sign a striker this summer and Gyokeres is the ideal choice to lead the line. | AFP via Getty Images
Arsenal and Man United are already both trying to sign Viktor Gyokeres, but they are now battling for a new striker.
Perhaps the biggest story of the transfer window so far is the fate of Sporting CP striker Viktor Gyokeres, who looks set to leave the Portuguese club this summer as he wants a move to a big European club.
Manchester United are in need of a striker, and so considering Gyokeres’ links with Ruben Amorim, it seems a move that would make a lot of sense. However, it had been reported that he was holding out for a move to Arsenal instead. But the Gunners were also considering a move for RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko.
Gyokeres’ future remains uncertain, but it is understood that United remain very keen on him. However, it has now been reported that both Arsenal and the Red Devils are battling to sign a different striker rather than Gyokeres.
Arsenal join Man United in race for Hugo Ektike
Ekitike is a tall striker, who is very dangerous in the air, but also quick and able to get in behind opposing defences. He is more raw than Gyokeres, but he is also four years younger and so could be a better long-term investment.
According to German newspaper BILD, Arsenal have joined United in the race to sign Ekitike. They see him as an alternative to Sesko and Gyokeres, as talks haven’t accelerated in their pursuit of the pair.
The report says that Ekitike is expected to cost around £85m, which is the same as Gyokeres’ release clause. He is most likely to be the costliest of the three strikers that Arsenal have been linked with.
Last season, the 23-year-old made 48 appearances for Frankfurt, scoring 22 goals and providing 12 assists. It is not yet understood if he would be willing to move to Old Trafford over the Emirates because of United’s lack of Champions League football.
Man United make £29.9m bid for Ekitike alternative
Amid Arsenal’s interest in the French striker, United may have to turn their attention away from Ekitike, especially considering his hefty £85m asking price. They have reportedly identified an alternative instead.
According to reports over the weekend, the Red Devils have made a £29.9m bid to sign former Brentford striker Ivan Toney, who is playing for Saudi Pro League side Al-Ahli. The England international scored 30 goals in 44 appearances last season, and has experience in the Premier League, scoring 36 goals in 85 games in the competition. He could potentially link up with former Brentford teammate Bryan Mbeumo, who United submitted a £60m bid for last week.
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