According to French media, Manchester United’s talks with lifelong fan Hugo Ekitike have become “more concrete” in the last 48 hours.
The 22-year-old striker had to sit out the U21 European Championship due to back problems, and his absence from the tournament now allows him to focus fully on a transfer.
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For months, it has been expected that the Frenchman will change clubs this summer. Even his current club, Eintracht Frankfurt, accepts that the striker will disappear – but only on their terms.
Frankfurt sets a hard price
After selling Randal Kolo Muani and Omar Marmoush for large sums, sporting director Markus Krosche has set a massive price of €100 million on Ekitike to signal that Frankfurt do not feel pressure to sell after qualifying for the Champions League.
Krosche, known as a tough and smart negotiator, has made it clear to Ekitike’s many suitors that he will not deviate from his position.
United intensifies talks
Chelsea failed in an attempt to sign Ekitike during the special 10-day transfer window for the Club World Cup, but “The Blues” remain interested in the 22-goal scorer. Liverpool are also actively involved in the hunt for the Frankfurt striker.
But in the last 48 hours, it has been Manchester United who have done the most work around Ekitike, according to Foot Mercato. The conversations are described as “more concrete” and generally positive – which should not come as a surprise.
Ekitike has been a United fan since childhood and admitted in December:
“I remember Manchester United has always been my favourite club. I’ve always loved Manchester.”
It remains to be seen whether the lack of European Cup football will be a dealbreaker.
Option after Gyökeres-deny
United have been following Ekitike’s development since his breakthrough at Stade Reims, and now they look to increase the pressure after Viktor Gyökeres has made it clear that he will not be coming to Old Trafford this summer.
As of now, it is believed that United cannot pay €100 million for Ekitike, but talks are “intensifying” – a clear sign that the Frenchman is an option the club is seriously considering.
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