Sources: Man United identify two players they could use in swap transfer for €100m-rated target

Manchester United are ramping up their summer transfer plans as the Red Devils continue to rebuild under Erik ten Hag. One of the club’s top priorities this window is strengthening the forward line, and Eintracht Frankfurt’s Hugo Ekitike has emerged as a serious target. As reported by Fabrizio Romano and now backed by further sources close to the situation, United remain firmly in the race to sign the highly-rated French striker.

While formal negotiations between Manchester United and Eintracht Frankfurt have not yet begun, multiple sources have confirmed that the Premier League giants are closely monitoring the 22-year-old forward. Ekitike, who enjoyed a stellar season with Frankfurt, has caught the attention of several elite clubs, including Chelsea and Liverpool. However, United are understood to be quietly confident about their chances if the financials can be navigated wisely.

The sticking point in any potential deal remains Ekitike’s valuation. Frankfurt are reportedly holding out for a fee in the region of €100 million. That figure, while arguably reflective of Ekitike’s rising profile and goal tally — 22 in all competitions last season — is still a tough pill to swallow for United’s recruitment team, especially considering Financial Fair Play constraints.

In a bid to lower the financial outlay, Manchester United are now exploring creative options — including a potential player-plus-cash swap deal. According to sources familiar with internal discussions at the club, both Rasmus Højlund and Joshua Zirkzee have been floated as potential makeweights in a transfer proposal aimed at securing Ekitike.

While the inclusion of Højlund may come as a surprise to many fans, the Danish striker endured a mixed debut season at Old Trafford. Although his energy and work rate were praised, his return in front of goal fell below expectations for a club hoping to challenge at the highest level. Whether Frankfurt would be interested in such a swap remains to be seen, but United appear open to the possibility.

Joshua Zirkzee is another intriguing option. The Dutchman has been linked with a move to Manchester United independently of this deal, having impressed at Bologna in Serie A. Sources indicate United’s interest in Ekitike doesn’t necessarily rule out a move for Zirkzee — but he could also be used as a bargaining chip if Frankfurt are tempted by a player with both potential and resale value.

Ekitike’s profile fits the mold of what United are looking for — young, dynamic, versatile, and with a high ceiling. His performances in the Bundesliga have turned heads, and he’s seen as a long-term solution in the striker position. United’s interest is bolstered by the presence of Christopher Vivell, the new technical director, who knows Ekitike well from his time working in German football with RB Leipzig and Hoffenheim.

Vivell has reportedly played a significant role in identifying Ekitike as a target, with his Bundesliga experience giving United an edge in evaluating the player’s development and suitability for the Premier League. His presence at Old Trafford could also help fast-track the player’s adaptation should a move go through.

Fabrizio Romano weighed in on the situation recently, confirming that Manchester United remain admirers of Ekitike. He explained that while the player is firmly on their radar, the deal is far from simple due to the hefty price tag and competition from Chelsea and Liverpool. All three clubs have made contact, but there are no advanced negotiations at this stage.

Romano also provided updates on other forward targets United are exploring, including Viktor Gyökeres and Bryan Mbeumo. The Sporting CP striker is reportedly prioritizing a move to Arsenal, though he hasn’t closed the door entirely on Manchester United. Meanwhile, talks with Brentford regarding Mbeumo are still ongoing, with an agreement already in place on the player’s side but not yet with the club.

The evolving transfer picture leaves United with several potential routes to bolstering their attack. However, the urgency to act is increasing, especially with preseason on the horizon and competition for players heating up across Europe. United are determined not to repeat last summer’s mistake of leaving their business too late.

Ekitike, once seen as a rising talent at PSG, has rebuilt his momentum with a strong campaign at Frankfurt. His ability to drift wide, create chances, and finish with either foot makes him an appealing all-around attacker. Scouts have been particularly impressed with his composure in the box and his work off the ball, traits that would fit well into Ten Hag’s high-pressing system.

For United, the chance to land a player of Ekitike’s calibre without paying the full €100 million could represent shrewd business. A swap deal would not only reduce the financial hit but also help the club balance the books — a growing concern in today’s regulatory climate.

However, the potential departure of Højlund or the inclusion of Zirkzee would also mean placing significant trust in Ekitike’s ability to deliver immediately. It’s a risk, but one United may be willing to take as they look to re-establish themselves as title contenders.

As things stand, United are playing a patient game — maintaining contact with all parties while monitoring how the market unfolds. Chelsea and Liverpool remain threats, but if United can find the right formula, they might just pull off one of the summer’s biggest transfer coups.

The next few weeks will be crucial, with the transfer window now officially open and clubs moving fast to secure their top targets. United have their eyes on Ekitike, and now it’s a matter of seeing whether they can turn interest into action — and action into a done deal.

Stay tuned.