While no formal bid has yet been submitted, United are said to be exploring the conditions of a possible deal for the French forward.
Ekitike, who joined Frankfurt from Paris Saint-Germain, is reportedly open to a move to Old Trafford.
Personal terms are not expected to be a stumbling block, though competition is emerging from Premier League rivals Chelsea and Liverpool, who are also monitoring the 21-year-old's situation.
United have been keeping close tabs on Ekitike's development for some time, with the club's recruitment team impressed by his technical ability and movement.
Despite Rasmus Hojlund being the current first-choice striker, United are actively looking to bolster their forward options. Hojlund has attracted interest from Serie A, but the Dane remains committed to fighting for his place under Erik ten Hag.
Ekitike is not the only name on United's shortlist. The club have also made contact via intermediaries for Sporting CP's Viktor Gyokeres, who enjoyed a prolific 2024/25 season in Portugal.
However, any deal for Gyokeres is likely to be complicated by his release clause and Sporting's high valuation.
Manchester United have made a bold move in the transfer market, tabling a staggering 127-million-pound offer for Barcelona's dynamic winger Raphinha, according to reports from Spanish outlet Fichajes.
Napoli are gearing up to make a bold move in the transfer market, reportedly targeting either Manchester City's Jack Grealish or Manchester United's Alejandro Garnacho to bolster their attack.
Manchester United winger Alejandro Garnacho is poised for a summer exit as tensions behind the scenes continue to escalate.
Manchester United's Rasmus Hojlund could be heading back to Serie A, with Inter Milan emerging as strong contenders to sign the Danish striker, according to recent reports from Italy.
