Eintracht Frankfurt striker Hugo Ekitike has reportedly decided to leave the club in the summer, and his decision has alerted Manchester United to his availability.
Boss Ruben Amorim presided over yet another Premier League defeat on Sunday when his side were beaten 2-0 by West Ham United at home, ending the weekend in 16th place with 39 points.
The club failed to score for the fourth time in seven league matches, with striker Rasmus Hojlund blanking for the 26th time in 30 top-flight games.
Hojlund has only found the back of the net on four occasions in the league this season, and his difficulties in front of goal has led to speculation that United may look for an alternative in the transfer market.
Journalist Fabrizio Romano claims that Eintracht Frankfurt number nine Ekitike has made the decision to leave the Bundesliga side in the summer, with rumours suggesting that Old Trafford could be his destination.
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Ekitike in profile
Ekitike has enjoyed a productive season in the final third, scoring 22 goals and providing 11 assists in 47 games in all competitions in 2024-25.
The 22-year-old has taken a sizeable step forward in his development considering he only scored four goals in 17 appearances in 2023-24.
While he has proven to be a capable goalscorer, his finishing has at times been wayward given he has netted 15 Bundesliga goals despite accumulating over 21 xG in the German top flight.
However, the Frenchman's ability to control the ball in tight spaces would perhaps allow him to link play with the likes of Bruno Fernandes and create scoring chances for teammates.
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Why Amorim will be under pressure
Since taking charge of Manchester United in November 2024, the Red Devils have lost 13, drawn six and won just six Premier League games under Amorim.
Supporters of the Portuguese coach have argued that it is difficult to gauge his fit at Old Trafford since he has not been given the benefit of a summer transfer window, but his failings this term mean he is likely to be under pressure from the start of 2025-26.
Amorim may need signings such as Ekitike to hit the ground running if he is to avoid being sacked, though with so many additions needed, it remains to be seen if the head coach will survive in the dugout.
Lewis Nolan
