Ben Jacobs Confirms Man United Have Made “Initial Contact” About Signing £35M Zirkzee Replacement

Man United have made “initial contact” with the representatives of Levante striker Karl Etta Eyong, according to journalist Ben Jacobs.

Speaking on The United Stand YouTube channel, Jacobs said the Cameroon international is very much on the Manchester club’s radar but the transfer is unlikely to happen in January:

“My understanding is that he is one of the young striker options for Manchester United if they go down that route. And there has been some initial contact between Manchester United and the player camp at this stage, nothing more.”

“And although a lot of people are kind of getting excited about a possible January move, and several outlets that I respect in Spain are saying that might be possible.”

“When I’ve made inquiries about the chance of a Levante exit, I’m not so sure that January is going to be the right time because he only joined Levante on September 1st.”

Several Premier League clubs are pursuing Etta Eyong

The 22-year-old has had an excellent start to life at Levante, and in addition to United, his performances have reportedly attracted the interest of Manchester City, Arsenal and Barcelona.

While Jacobs has played down the likelihood of a January switch, a deal could still happen if the Red Devils are prepared to pay his release clause, which is believed to be €40m (£35m).

Man United may need a replacement for Zirkzee

It has been reported by several respected sources that Joshua Zirkzee is agitating for a transfer away from Old Trafford.

The Netherlands international has not started a game this season, and he wants to be playing regularly in order to give himself a chance of playing at next summer’s World Cup. West Ham and Roma are thought to be leading the race for his signature.

Read more about the Manchester United First Team Squad for 2025/26 here