According to Prominent Italian Journalist Fabrizio Romano Man United is about to sign a major striker upgrade over Højlund as Wilcox initiates negotiations to bring “the next Mbappé” to Manchester United

Manchester United hit a rough patch last season, but manager Ruben Amorim remains confident he can turn things around. Determined to reshape the team’s attacking force, Amorim has already secured Matheus Cunha from Wolves for £62.5 million, and talks are progressing with Bryan Mbeumo over a potential move to bolster the right wing.

However, the biggest shake-up may come at the striker position. Rasmus Hojlund struggled to make a real impact throughout the 2024/25 campaign, managing just four league goals. While he wasn’t notably wasteful—missing only six clear chances, according to Sofascore—it’s clear that service to him was limited. Nonetheless, his poor output has raised doubts about his future, with whispers of a potential return to Serie A just two years after joining United from Atalanta in a £72 million deal.

Now, United have opened discussions with Eintracht Frankfurt regarding Hugo Ekitike, a rising French talent who has caught the attention of several major clubs, including Liverpool and Chelsea. After talks for Viktor Gyokeres stalled, the 22-year-old has emerged as the top alternative. However, Frankfurt’s €100 million (£84 million) valuation presents a significant hurdle.

Ekitike’s appeal lies in his combination of youth, productivity, and style of play. With 22 goals and 12 assists in all competitions last season, he’s been praised by analysts as one of the most promising strikers in Europe. Some have even likened him to Kylian Mbappe, highlighting his blend of scoring ability and creative flair.

Amorim’s system could be an ideal match for Ekitike. With Cunha already signed and Mbeumo potentially on the way, a front three built around those names would give United far more attacking fluidity and edge than they had last season.

A comparison between Ekitike and Hojlund further strengthens the case for change. Per 90 minutes, Ekitike outshines Hojlund in nearly every key area—goals, assists, shots, touches in the attacking box, and progressive actions. His ball-carrying, take-ons, and recoveries suggest he’s not only more dangerous up front but also more involved in the build-up and pressing game Amorim favors.

Ekitike’s finishing is another standout quality. He netted 16 Bundesliga goals and missed only 15 big chances, showing a calmness in front of goal that United desperately need. His movement and spatial awareness make him an ideal candidate to lead the line, especially when flanked by Cunha and Mbeumo in a high-tempo attacking trio.

For Hojlund, the road back to the starting eleven may be narrowing. Even if his finishing hasn’t been disastrous, his overall lack of influence in matches doesn’t align with Amorim’s vision. If United succeed in landing Ekitike, it would likely mark the end of Hojlund’s stint as the club’s first-choice striker.

The move reflects a clear strategy from United’s new leadership to rejuvenate the squad with youthful, high-output talents who suit a modern, pressing game. And if Frankfurt’s steep asking price can be negotiated down, Ekitike may well become the defining signing of United’s summer rebuild.