Chelsea are reportedly hesitating over a move to sign Eintracht Frankfurt striker Hugo Ekitike, as Liverpool also express interest, according to German reports.
The Blues are actively strengthening their squad ahead of the upcoming Club World Cup, having completed a £30 million deal to sign Liam Delap from Ipswich Town this week. Additionally, Chelsea are in advanced talks with Borussia Dortmund over winger Jamie Bynoe-Gittens, who has agreed to a seven-year contract with the club.
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Ekitike has drawn significant attention after an impressive season with Eintracht Frankfurt, finishing with 22 goals in all competitions. However, reports from BILD reveal that Chelsea remain cautious about pushing forward with a deal. The main sticking point is valuation: Eintracht Frankfurt reportedly value the 22-year-old striker at €100 million (£84.3 million), while Chelsea are unwilling to exceed €80 million (£67.4 million).
BILD also states that Liverpool are interested in Ekitike but are prioritizing negotiations with Bayer Leverkusen for Florian Wirtz. Earlier this month, German media reported that Liverpool had held initial talks regarding a potential Ekitike transfer.
Eintracht Frankfurt’s sporting director, Markus Krosche, addressed Ekitike’s future after the Bundesliga season ended, acknowledging the striker’s appeal on the European market. He said:
“He’s one of the most interesting strikers on the European market. Hugo has to decide that. I’m glad we have him. If he decides otherwise, that’s our motto—if a player develops faster than us, we let him go.”
Ekitike recently withdrew from France’s Under-21 squad for the European Championship due to a back injury, adding uncertainty to the situation.
Chelsea will begin their Club World Cup campaign on June 16 against Los Angeles FC, followed by fixtures against Flamengo and ES Tunis on June 20 as they look to make an impact under manager Enzo Maresca.
