Chelsea's priority striker?! Blues in talks over move for €100m-rated Hugo Ekitike with Frankfurt hitman high on shortlist

Originally on loan at Frankfurt from Paris Saint-Germain for the latter half of the 2023/24 season, Ekitike made the switch permanent last summer. Since then, the forward has flourished, playing a pivotal role in Frankfurt’s historic third-place Bundesliga finish. With a combined 22 goals and 12 assists in all competitions, Ekitike ended the season with 34 goal contributions — an extraordinary output that powered Frankfurt to automatic Champions League qualification.

According to RMC Sport,Chelsea have entered advanced discussions to sign Ekitike, with the French striker identified as a key target heading into the summer transfer window. However, Chelsea are not the only English side monitoring Ekitike’s situation. Arsenal and Liverpool have also made inquiries and are said to have held preliminary discussions with Frankfurt. Nonetheless, Chelsea’s scouting presence at Ekitike’s matches — including their visit to Frankfurt’s final Bundesliga fixture against SC Freiburg — indicates the Blues are positioning themselves as serious contenders.

The West London outfit are believed to have narrowed their forward targets to three names: Ekitike, RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko, and Napoli’s Victor Osimhen. Among the trio, Ekitike is viewed as the most compatible with Chelsea’s long-term vision — young, technically refined, and capable of leading the line in a fluid attacking setup.

As it stands, Chelsea are in a strong position to return to Champions League football next season. Sitting fifth in the Premier League table, they control their own fate and need a win against Nottingham Forest on Sunday to confirm their qualification. That return to Europe’s elite competition would significantly boost their appeal in negotiations with Ekitike, who will no doubt be considering the sporting project and continental exposure offered by his next club.