Ruben Amorim’s rebuild at Manchester United faces a critical test this summer as he looks to tailor his squad according to his favoured system of 3-4-3. With the club’s misfiring forwards continuing to miss upfront, it has forced United to a relentless search for a new striker. The latest name in the rumour mill as per CaughtOffside is Eintracht Frankfurt’s Hugo Ekitike, who has emerged as a prime target, whereas Manchester United targets his Bundesliga resurgence offering hope to a toothless frontline.
Ekitike’s Redemption Arc
Once dubbed a future star at Reims, Ekitike’s career stalled after a high-profile move to Paris Saint-Germain in 2022. But a loan spell at Frankfurt, made permanent for €16 million last summer, reignited his spark. The Frenchman has netted 19 goals and seven assists across all competitions this term, including 13 Bundesliga strikes (seventh-highest in the league). His evolution into a ruthless finisher stems from a tactical shift. “I realized I could shoot more during matches and be more dangerous like that,” Ekitike admitted. “I was participating in build-up play too much and not staying in the right zones as a forward. Now, I try to move around less and focus on scoring goals.”
United’s Striker Struggles
Amorim’s frustration with Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee is profound. The duo has combined for just six Premier League goals, with Hojlund regressing after a promising debut season. Marcus Rashford’s loan to Aston Villa further exposed the lack of depth, while Antony moved to Betis for a loan spell. Ekitike’s direct style and 23 league starts for Frankfurt, a side pushing for Champions League football, make him an appealing fix.
Premier League Competition
United scouts will reportedly assess Ekitike during Friday’s England U21 vs. France U21 clash, a chance to gauge his composure against rising Premier League talent. But the Red Devils aren’t alone. Arsenal and Chelsea are also circling, with the Gunners seeking attacking variety and the Blues eager to upgrade on Nicolas Jackson. Frankfurt’s €80 million valuation complicates matters but all the clubs are adamant that the value can be lowered big time.
Strikers Shortlist
Ekitike isn’t the only name on Amorim’s radar. RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko (16 goals in 35 games) and Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyokeres (40+ goals in consecutive seasons) remain priorities. However, Gyokeres’ links to elite European clubs, competing for the Champions League and United’s potential Champions League absence could pivot focus to Ekitike.
Financial Realities
United’s budget largely depends on player sales. While Victor Lindelof, Christian Eriksen, and Jonny Evans are set to leave for free, major funds require high-profile departures like Marcus Rashford, Alejandro Garnacho, or academy graduate Kobbie Mainoo as they all fall under the total profit criteria since all came through United’s academy. Amorim has stressed, “I will have to let players leave before I can bring anyone in.”