Manchester United are monitoring Eintracht Frankfurt striker Hugo Ekitike as they continue their search for attacking reinforcements. The 22-year-old French forward has impressed in the Bundesliga, scoring 19 goals in 47 appearances for Frankfurt. Initially joining on loan from Paris Saint-Germain in early 2024, Ekitike made the move permanent for a reported fee of £14 million in April. With United’s pursuit of Viktor Gyökeres appearing unlikely, attention has shifted to Ekitike, who has netted 50 goals in 151 career appearances and remains a key figure for France’s Under-21 national team.
Elsewhere in the Premier League, Bournemouth have completed the signing of left-back Adrien Truffert from Rennes. The 23-year-old has agreed to a five-year deal, with his arrival expected to facilitate Milos Kerkez’s potential move away from the club, with Liverpool reportedly interested. Truffert, who captained Rennes and represented France at the 2024 Olympics, has made 191 appearances and scored nine goals in his club career. A promising full-back with international pedigree, Truffert is eager to challenge himself in the Premier League and help Bournemouth reach new heights.
In the Championship, Leeds United’s hopes of signing Udinese defender Jaka Bijol are under threat, with Newcastle United and AC Milan expressing late interest in the Slovenian international. The 26-year-old centre-back, who featured for Slovenia at Euro 2024, is valued at £17 million and was close to joining Daniel Farke’s newly promoted side. However, the possibility of a hijack from bigger clubs has raised uncertainty. Bijol, a two-footed defender with strong passing ability and a background as a defensive midfielder, is highly rated for his versatility, aerial strength, and composure under pressure.
Newcastle are in the market for a right-sided centre-back to compete with Fabian Schär, with Marc Guéhi from Crystal Palace as their top target. However, Guéhi’s high price tag could make him unattainable, making Bijol a more feasible alternative. The Magpies are also looking to strengthen other areas, including forward and goalkeeper positions, with interest in Brighton’s João Pedro and Burnley’s James Trafford, although both deals present financial and logistical challenges.
Crystal Palace, meanwhile, are set to bolster their goalkeeping ranks with the signing of Walter Benítez on a free transfer. The 32-year-old Argentine, formerly of PSV and Nice, is expected to compete with Dean Henderson for the No 1 jersey. With Matt Turner likely to leave for Lyon, Benítez brings experience and depth to the Selhurst Park squad.
Brighton are continuing to invest in young talent, nearing a deal for Hellas Verona’s Diego Coppola for £8.5 million. They are also finalizing the signing of Olivier Boscagli from PSV and recently secured teenage striker Charalampos Kostoulas in a significant £30 million transfer.
