Liverpool given HUGE boost in pursuit of striker duo

Liverpool’s upcoming chase for a striker in the summer transfer window could be impacted significantly by events at Old Trafford.

It’s being reported in Germany that Manchester United have made “initial contact” for the Bayer Leverkusen striker Patrick Schick.

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The Czech international has scored 17 goals in 26 Bundesliga matches for the German champions this season and has the Premier League in mind for his next move.

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That’s according to Sky Germany reporter Patrick Berger, who claims Leverkusen will ask for €25 million to €30m to part with their No9.

Man Utd make contact for Schick

“Manchester United are monitoring the situation of Bayer Leverkusen striker Patrik Schick,” he writes on X. “MUFC are in the market for a No.9 and prefer a younger profile - but Schick is also considered interesting.

“Initial contact was made, but nothing concrete so far. One of many names on the list. Leverkusen would demand €25-30m for Schick who is under contract until 2027.

“The Premier League is Schick’s preferred destination. Despite interest from Saudi clubs, a move to the Middle East is currently not an option.”

It makes sense that Man Utd are shopping in a more budget-friendly sector of the market given their recent trouble concerning PSR. Schick is a relatively low-cost option and for a club like United would provide a decent level of service.

Path clears for Delap and Ekitike

And that also opens the door a little wider for Liverpool to make a move for two priority targets of their own.

In other reports, United have been named as suitors for both Liam Delap AND Hugo Ekitike.

Liverpool’s interest in Delap is long-standing, stretching back to Jurgen Klopp’s time in charge, while Ekitike is on the radar since 2022.

Having United eased aside in the race for one or both means less competition for a new No9 - earmarked for an upgrade by Arne Slot and sporting director Richard Hughes this summer.

Delap, 22, is reported to have a £30m release clause in his Ipswich contract which Liverpool could decide to activate this summer.

On the other hand Ekitike is expected by his club Eintracht Frankfurt to fetch around €100m in the market with interest increasing in his services.

Liverpool move on from Darwin and Jota

The club are ready to move on from Diogo Jota and Darwin Nunez should the right offers materialise.

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Liverpool can be reasonably confident of banking around £100m or more for those two, meaning deals for replacements could well be achievable without too much extra spend.

And with Man Utd dropping out of the race for Delap and Ekitike in favour of Schick, the possibility moves a little closer.