Unless you’ve been hiding under a rock, you’ll have heard the name Hugo Ekitike mentioned in the same breath as Manchester United throughout the weekend.
At the time of writing, the forward is three days shy of his 23rd birthday and is the focus of mainstream outlets reporting about interest from Ruben Amorim and his Ineos-assembled hierarchy.
Naturally, much of this surfaced following revelations about Viktor Gyokeres and his apparent desire to snub the 20-time English champions in favour of Mikel Arteta and his Arsenal ‘project’.
While this may irk Amorim, United were undeterred and ready to shift attention to alternative names. Say what you will about the long-standing issues at the boardroom level, but this ‘best-in-class’ setup has planned for every outcome.
Per Friday’s report in The Athletic, by Andy Mitten, Omar Berrada has emphasised a desire to target players “who want to join United because they believe in the club”.
It follows the CEO’s statement regarding ambitions for the summer window while speaking to MUTV in Malaysia in May. “I can’t talk about specifics, but I can say we have been planning for many months now,” Berrada purred confidently.
As confirmed by the Theatre of Red as far back as March, Ekitike is one of several strikers shortlisted by the Premier League side. Furthermore, representatives have already enquired about the desired fee from Eintracht Frankfurt.
However, with much apprehension surfacing regarding a potential €100 million price tag, what exactly have Carrington officials identified with the talented Frenchman, and how could he benefit this new-look attacking line?
The facts and figures behind Hugo Ekitike and how he can aid Manchester United
On first impressions, his frame looks similar to that of an aspiring NBA talent. Ekitike possesses a slim 6-foot-3 stature with notably long limbs, but he moves like a much smaller forward with surprising acceleration and trickery.
His arms are a valuable tool in fending off would-be defensive attempts, while his long legs offer an added advantage when duelling for a loose ball or a lofted pass from teammates.
Amorim requires an imposing forward with the ability to play with his back to the goal while utilising speed to make channel-breaking runs to expose the opponent’s backline and structure.
Despite what some deem as a relative inexperience at the highest level of European football, Hugo is tailor-made to fulfil the role requirements of this tactically shrewd Portuguese mastermind.
Versatility remains the primary requirement for any member of an Amorim setup, particularly that of his forward men. It’s not enough to sit still and wait for opportunities; players must involve themselves in the buildup phases.
Whether tracking back to aid in recovering possession or carrying the ball 30 yards to alleviate pressure before offloading to a teammate in the final third, a player must possess multiple strings on his bow.
Naturally, a striker must be a clinical finisher with credible ability on either foot and a keen eye for goal. Say what you will about the difference in defensive quality between leagues, but 22 goals and 12 assists is a remarkable return for a young man in the Bundesliga’s third-placed side.
As is evident from the figures below, Ekitike does not shy away from any aspect across the forward line and has proven an invaluable figure for Dino Toppmoller’s side.
| Hugo Ekitike vs ‘Top five leagues’ (Last 365 days) | Per 90 minutes | Percentile |
| Interceptions | 0.35 | 86 |
| Successful take-ons | 1.90 | 96 |
| Touches in the attacking penalty area | 6.73 | 94 |
| Shot-creating actions | 3.50 | 94 |
| Shots (Total) | 3.74 | 93 |
| Key passes | 1.60 | 95 |
| Passes into the penalty area | 1.20 | 93 |
| Progressive carries | 3.04 | 96 |
| Crosses into the penalty area | 0.13 | 87 |
| Carries | 22.71 | 92 |
Figures available at fbref.com
Inevitably, the unavoidable factor of finances will always rear its head.
While Manchester United continue to battle the never-ending financial regulations imposed by the Premier League and UEFA, player sales are mandatory to complete desired deals.
Although some outlets have shared figures as high as €100 million if United were to target the Frenchman, the Theatre of Red is advised of the potential of a substantially lower ask in the region of 25%.
Jason Wilcox admires the Frankfurt star and values his current ability and potential for immense growth. Although Amorim remains keen on Gyokeres, we’re told of his great admiration for the former Stade Reims academy man.
Presently, officials are investigating the possibility of a deal but have not yet ruled out an alternative (and cheaper) option earmarked for several months, with much uncertainty regarding Gyokeres.
It is crucial to remember that the Reims native remains contracted to 2029, and although he could push for a summer move, the ball remains firmly in the court of the 1959 German kingpins.
How do you feel about Manchester United pursuing Hugo Ekitike, and what do you deem a fair transfer fee?
Let us know in the comments or across our social channels.
Primary photo by vitaliivitleo via depositphotos.com
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