The 22-year-old's stellar performances in the Bundesliga have made him one of the most sought-after forwards in Europe ahead of the 2025 summer transfer window.

Ekitike delivered an impressive 22 goals and 12 assists in 48 appearances across all competitions during the 2024/25 season, helping Frankfurt secure a third-place finish in the Bundesliga, though they trailed champions Bayern Munich by 22 points. His electric form has put him firmly on the radar of several Premier League heavyweights.

The young striker, who has yet to earn a senior cap for France, first joined Frankfurt on loan from Paris Saint-Germain in January 2024 before making the move permanent for approximately 14 million pounds last July. After struggling to find his rhythm at PSG, where he opted to sign over Newcastle United in 2022, Ekitike has rediscovered his spark in Germany, drawing comparisons to Newcastle's Alexander Isak for his pace and finishing.

Manchester United, under manager Ruben Amorim, have made early contact with Frankfurt to explore a potential deal, as reported by Spanish outlet Fichajes.

The Red Devils see Ekitike as a key piece to bolster their attack, potentially leading the line ahead of Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee. However, Frankfurt's valuation of 100 million euros (approximately 85 million pounds) has raised eyebrows at Old Trafford, with United deeming the fee "excessive" and aiming to negotiate a lower price.

"United have taken the first step to reinforce their attack," a source close to the club told Fichajes, emphasizing the ambition behind their pursuit. Despite the steep asking price, United remain determined to stay in the race.

Liverpool are also closely monitoring Ekitike's situation, with reports suggesting they could move for the striker if they offload Darwin Nunez. The Uruguayan, who started just eight Premier League games during Liverpool's title-winning campaign, is reportedly attracting interest from Napoli and Saudi champions Al Hilal.

Sky Sports Germany's Florian Plettenberg noted, "Liverpool see themselves having a very good chance in the race for Ekitike, but sales, including Nunez, need to happen first."

Chelsea, meanwhile, have kept Ekitike on their shortlist despite recently signing Liam Delap from Ipswich Town for 30 million pounds. The Blues have been in talks with Frankfurt but are hesitant to meet the 100-million-euro price tag, prompting them to explore more affordable options like Brighton's Joao Pedro. "If the price isn't right, then he'll just stay with us," Frankfurt CEO Markus Krosche told Wiesbadener Kurier, underlining the club's firm stance.

No official statements have surfaced on X from United, Liverpool, Chelsea, or Ekitike's camp, but the buzz around the striker's future continues to grow.

With Frankfurt under no pressure to sell and Ekitike's stock soaring, the battle for his signature promises to be one of the summer's most gripping transfer sagas. The Premier League's elite are ready to pounce, but only time will tell who can meet Frankfurt's lofty demands.

Miguel Cardoso concerned about Nedbank Cup impact on Champions League tie