Hugo Ekitike
Image Credits: GETTY IMAGES
Manchester United’s striker search has been relentless this summer, with INEOS determined to add more firepower to Ruben Amorim’s squad.
The £62.5m capture of Matheus Cunha was a major step.
However talks continue for Bryan Mbeumo – and United want a pure No.9 to round off their window.
Arsenal are however, closing in on Viktor Gyokeres.
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While Victor Osimhen has opted to re-join Galatasaray.
Thus, leaving United short of options heading into pre-season.
Now, Hugo Ekitike has returned to the spotlight.
Fabrizio Romano has issued a fresh update on the player’s future, speaking on the latest episode of his Here We Go Podcast.
Romano revealed that Ekitike’s next move is likely to be in the Premier League, where Liverpool have now emerged as frontrunners.
He said: “His future remains open.
“From what we’re hearing, the Premier League remains the most likely destination for Hugo Ekitike, who did fantastic last season.
“I would maintain Liverpool as one of the options.
“Let’s see what happens with Darwin Nunez.”
Ekitike, who scored 15 goals and registered eight assists for Eintracht Frankfurt last season, remains a target for United.
His childhood support for the club is one reason he’s still open to a move to Old Trafford despite the lack of European football.
However, finances remain a huge obstacle.
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Frankfurt are demanding £85m for the 23-year-old, a fee that United simply cannot afford this window unless the asking price drops significantly.
Romano confirmed that United won’t pay that figure and would only re-enter talks if there’s movement on Frankfurt’s end.
Liverpool, meanwhile, are monitoring Nunez’s situation closely.
If he moves on – with Napoli among the clubs in contact, Ekitike could be brought in as his replacement.
Especially as Arne Slot’s side prepare to defend their Premier League title.
If Ekitike does end up at Anfield, it would mark the second time this summer that United have seen a striker target head to a rival.
It would come as another embarrassment after Liam Delap chose Chelsea over Old Trafford in search of Champions League football.
United now risk losing another long-term option.
If they do, it could make the hunt for a forward even more desperate with pre-season just around the corner.
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