Fabrizio Romano: Manchester United 'call agents' to explore massive £85m striker signing after Gyokeres blow
Man Utd still want to sign a striker in the summer transfer window and here is the latest news.
Manchester United are keeping tabs on Hugo Ekitike as they look at the various striker options available to them in the summer transfer window. Ruben Amorim has prioritised the addition of a goalscorer to his squad, with Viktor Gyokeres viewed as an unlikely addition to the side.
Matheus Cunha became the first summer signing last week, while United are expected to approach Brentford with an improved bid for Bryan Mbeumo. It is understood Sporting star Gyokeres would prefer a move to Arsenal this summer, with United looking at alternative targets in attack.
Frankfurt forward Ekitike is one option, though United would face fierce competition for his signature, amid interest from Chelsea, Liverpool and Napoli. Any move is likely to hinge on player sales though, with it suggested the Bundesliga club will demand a staggering £85 million to sell the striker this summer.
United make contact over Ekitike move
Fabrizio Romano claims Manchester United have made initial contact with Hugo Ekitike's representatives as they look to secure a striker in the summer transfer window. The transfer guru has provided an update on the forward's current situation, with Chelsea and Liverpool among the other sides to have shown an early interest in him.
“Manchester United have called with the agents of Hugo Ekitike," Romano said on his YouTube channel. "My understanding is the following: A call from Chelsea. Chelsea called Eintracht last week, but zero contact this week.
“Last week there was contact between the agents and Chelsea asking Eintracht how much they want for Hugo Ekitike and they were told €100million (~£85million) which is something as of today, Chelsea are not willing to pay. Chelsea are interested in Ekitike but only if the transfer price drops during the transfer window.
“Liverpool are interested in Ekitike if they find a solution for Darwin Nunez. My understanding is for Darwin Nunez to leave with Napoli interested, clubs from Spain, clubs from Saudi. So, Darwin Nunez is going so we have to consider Liverpool for Ekitike. Again it will depend on the price because Liverpool have already spent important money in the market.
“Then Manchester United called to be informed of the situation, to speak with agents because they are looking for a striker. So Chelsea called but the price is considered too high, Manchester United are now informed and don't forget Liverpool in this story. Let's see what happens.”