With the summer transfer window fast approaching, Manchester United is reportedly positioning itself at the forefront to secure the highly-rated striker Hugo Ekitike. Despite their struggles in the Premier League this season, the Red Devils are confident they can outmaneuver top clubs like Liverpool and Arsenal to land the 22-year-old sensation.

Ekitike made headlines last summer when he joined Eintracht Frankfurt on a permanent deal worth £13 million after impressing during a loan spell at the Bundesliga club. This season, he has proven himself invaluable, netting 19 goals and providing eight assists in 39 appearances. His contributions have been critical as Frankfurt aims for a top-four finish in the league and a deep run in the Europa League, where they are set to face Tottenham Hotspur in the quarter-finals.

The excitement around Ekitike is palpable, and several major clubs are circling, eager to capitalize on his stellar form. Notably, Manchester United may hold a "unique advantage" in this race—Ekitike is a lifelong fan of the club. This emotional connection could lead him to prioritize discussions with United over rival suitors.

For United, the potential signing hinges not just on Ekitike's affection for the club but also on their success this season. Securing a victory in the Europa League would significantly enhance Ekitike’s appeal, potentially promising him a stage in the Champions League next season.

According to reputable journalist Florian Plettenberg, United have formally expressed their interest in Ekitike. Frankfurt recognizes inevitable offers for their star forward but insists on proper compensation given that Paris Saint-Germain holds a 20% sell-on clause, meaning they could demand up to £67 million for the promising striker.

In order to finance such a high-profile acquisition, Manchester United will likely need to offload several players, a move that head coach Ruben Amorim is expected to support as he seeks a replacement for Rasmus Hojlund.

Adding to the saga, reports indicate that Arsenal is also in pursuit of Ekitike as a backup plan should their attempts to sign Alexander Isak from Newcastle United fail. Liverpool, too, recently made their interest known, which could spark a bidding war.

No matter which team Ekitike eventually joins, his arrival in the Premier League promises to be thrilling. Former Dutch international Wesley Sneijder recently echoed this sentiment, praising Ekitike's blend of skills, comparing him to the likes of Neymar and Kylian Mbappe. "He possesses the elegance of Neymar and explosive speed reminiscent of Mbappe," Sneijder stated, highlighting the young striker’s vast potential.

In other United-related transfer news, academy coach Colin Little revealed that they narrowly missed out on signing Cole Palmer in his youth—an opportunity that slipped through their fingers due to rival Manchester City’s improved offer. Furthermore, ambitious rumors suggest Real Madrid has set its sights on Bruno Fernandes, closely monitoring him in recent matches, which could put United's resolve to the test.

As the transfer window approaches, all eyes will be on Ekitike and the unfolding drama surrounding Manchester United’s quest to secure the star striker. Will they succeed in luring him away from the London clubs? Stay tuned!