Eintracht Frankfurt’s striker Hugo Ekitiké has signaled his willingness to join Manchester United this summer, even if it means playing without European football, as reported by German sources.
Ekitiké is quickly becoming one of the most sought-after talents in the Premier League, with top clubs like Chelsea and Liverpool showing strong interest after his impressive season where he netted 22 goals and provided 12 assists across all competitions in 2024–25.
Recently, Manchester United have entered the fray, especially after missing out on Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyökeres. Reports indicate that they are now competing for Ekitiké’s signature.
Notably, BILD has pointed out that United is the only club that has reached out to Frankfurt regarding Ekitiké, despite ongoing rumors of Chelsea and Liverpool being in discussions over the last few weeks.
Although United’s absence from European competitions next season could complicate their transfer strategy, the French forward seems keen on making a move to Old Trafford.
Ekitiké has often expressed his longstanding admiration for Manchester United, reaffirming his support as recently as March 2025.
United will be looking to capitalize on their situation, but the Red Devils also have a few other advantages over their competitors.
Frankfurt’s director, Markus Krösche, recently cautioned Ekitiké’s potential suitors that they’ll need to activate his release clause, set at €100 million (£85.1 million, $115.4 million).
Krösche has a close relationship with United’s chief, Christopher Vivell, who previously worked with him at RB Leipzig during the 2020–21 season.
Ekitiké’s representatives are currently in discussions with United.
Meanwhile, Liverpool has put a hold on their negotiations as they work to secure financing to facilitate their impending €136.3 million (£116.1 million, $157.8 million) purchase of Florian Wirtz.
Chelsea, on the other hand, has been engaged mainly with Ekitiké’s representatives but has shown hesitation regarding Frankfurt’s asking price.
At this moment, there appears to be no clear frontrunner in the chase for Ekitiké, though United’s interest seems the most solid.