Manchester United’s hunt for a new centre forward has been continuous throughout the current summer window, but their hunt has so far been to no avail.
Countless names have been mentioned to fill the role at Old Trafford, but their need for a new talisman is evident by the lack of quality options at Ruben Amorim’s disposal.
Rasmus Hojlund has been the manager’s main man in such a department since his appointment, but he’s struggled to repay the faith shown in him by the manager.
The Dane has come under fire from the fanbase in recent months, unsurprisingly so given his tally of just four Premier League goals throughout the 2024/25 campaign.
However, he may struggle to maintain his role in the side next season, with numerous names entering the mix over a potential move during the off-season.
The latest on United’s hunt for a new striker this summer
Moise Kean is a player who’s been on the radar of Jason Wilcox and Co in recent weeks, but may have to act quickly to secure his signature, given his current £44m release clause expires at midnight tonight.
He’s not the only forward on their radar, with Juventus star Dušan Vlahović another man in their sights, potentially being included in any deal which could see Jadon Sancho move in the opposite direction.
However, another name has reemerged as a potential option this summer, with Eintracht Frankfurt star Hugo Ekitiké also being considered, according to CaughtOffside.
Their report claims that the Red Devils have made contact with his representatives over a move to Old Trafford after scoring 22 goals across all competitions last season.
However, recent updates have highlighted competition for his signature, with fellow English side Newcastle United making an offer of more than £60m for the Frenchman’s signature. He has an £86m release clause in his contract, according to reports.
Why United’s latest target could be Amorim’s next Gyokeres
Sporting CP striker Viktor Gyokeres has been another man in demand this window, which is no surprise given his incredible goalscoring feats in Portugal over recent seasons.
The Swede has registered 97 goals in his 102 appearances for the club, 54 of which came during the most recent campaign – the highest tally of any player in Europe.
He’s already stated his desire to move on and undertake a new challenge, with United one of the interested parties, given his previous spell playing under Amorim.
However, it appears as though he is set for a move to rivals Arsenal, a deal which could massively dent the club’s hunt for a new talisman during the current window.
The supporters shouldn’t worry though, with fellow target Ekitike an excellent option for the club, potentially being Amorim’s next star talisman in his quest for success in Manchester.
When comparing the Frankfurt star’s stats with those of Gyokeres last season, he managed to outperform him in multiple key areas, arguably being a better option ahead of 2025/26.
Ekitike, who’s been labelled “world-class” by talent scout Jacek Kulig, has produced a better goal per shot on target rate, proving that he’s more clinical with the chances he’s presented with in front of goal.
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How Ekitike compares to Gyokeres in 2024/25 |
||
|---|---|---|
|
Statistics (per 90) |
Ekitike |
Gyokeres |
|
Games played |
33 |
33 |
|
Goals scored |
15 |
39 |
|
Goals per shot on target |
0.4 |
0.3 |
|
Pass accuracy |
75% |
71% |
|
Passes into final third |
0.8 |
0.5 |
|
Take-on success |
47% |
45% |
|
Carries into final third |
2 |
1.3 |
|
Aerials won |
1.8 |
1.1 |
|
Stats via FBref |
||
His all-round play is also more impressive than the Swede’s, completing more passes and winning more aerial battles per 90, having the ability to link up with players and allowing them to bolster their own tallies.
The former PSG star has further showcased his talents, registering more carries into the final third per 90 and completing more of the take-ons he’s attempted – having the star quality to create a chance out of absolutely nothing.
The interest in both talents highlights the ambition the hierarchy are targeting this summer, as they look to provide Amorim with the chance for success at the Theatre of Dreams.
However, whilst missing out on Gyokeres may be a disappointment, Ekitike has proven he would be a just as impressive option in the final third, potentially being the talisman to lead Amorim to glory during his reign at the club.
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Manchester United are desperately searching for a new centre-forward this summer.
