Man Utd holding talks on 'perfect centre-forward' for Reds who hit 44 goals last season

Manchester United are increasingly optimistic about securing the signing of Hugo Ekitike from Eintracht Frankfurt in the summer transfer window.

Bringing in a top-class striker is United’s main priority after a disappointing Premier League campaign in which the team scored just 44 goals in 38 matches.

Neither Rasmus Hojlund nor Joshua Zirkzee has consistently delivered in front of goal, prompting manager Ruben Amorim to push for a new centre-forward to boost United’s chances of returning to the top four next season.

United have been tracking Ekitike since his days at Reims and were particularly impressed by his performances last season.

The 22-year-old French striker enjoyed a standout campaign, scoring 22 goals and providing 12 assists in 48 appearances for Frankfurt. His all-round ability has drawn praise from pundits, with former United midfielder Owen Hargreaves describing Ekitike as “the perfect centre-forward” for the club.

According to FootMercato, United have taken concrete steps towards signing Ekitike and have held positive talks with his agent. Discussions have accelerated in recent days, and both parties are said to be optimistic after these constructive contacts.

United have also reached out to Eintracht Frankfurt to enquire about the transfer fee required to secure the striker’s services.

However, United are not alone in their pursuit. Both Liverpool and Chelsea are closely monitoring Ekitike’s situation and could enter the race with offers of their own.

Meanwhile, United’s hopes of signing Viktor Gyokeres from Sporting CP appear to be fading. Despite manager Amorim’s desire to reunite with the striker, Gyokeres’s representatives have informed United that he does not wish to join the club, instead preferring a move to Arsenal, which he considers his “dream” destination.

With Gyokeres likely out of reach, United’s focus is firmly on Ekitike, and there is growing belief at Old Trafford that a deal can be struck to bring the prolific young forward to Manchester this summer