Chelsea eye move for Frankfurt’s Hugo Ekitike after securing UCL football

Chelsea have entered talks to sign Eintracht Frankfurt’s striker Hugo Ekitike as they shape their transfer plans following qualification for the 2025/26 Champions League, according to The Independent.

The Blues secured a vital 1-0 win at Nottingham Forest on Sunday, courtesy of Levi Colwill’s goal, providing a late boost to Enzo Maresca’s squad.

With Nicolas Jackson suspended for the final two games and promising 18-year-old Marc Guiu lacking experience, Chelsea find themselves short in attack.

The club are actively pursuing a forward this summer, with Ekitike topping their wishlist.

They are also monitoring Sporting’s Viktor Gyokeres and Ipswich Town’s Liam Delap.

While Arsenal are considering Gyokeres, and Manchester United appear set to sign Delap, Chelsea have focused their discussions on Hugo Ekitike.

The 22-year-old has impressed this season, scoring 22 goals in 45 appearances for Eintracht Frankfurt since making his permanent move from PSG last summer, following a successful loan spell.

The French striker showcased his talent with a stunning goal against Tottenham Hotspur in the Europa League quarter-final, cementing his reputation as a rising star.

However, Chelsea could face a challenge in meeting Frankfurt’s valuation, with the Bundesliga club reportedly demanding around €100million (£83.9million) for the French Under-21 international.

Ekitike has impressed this season, scoring 22 goals in 45 appearances for Frankfurt

Meanwhile, Maresca’s side look ahead to the Conference League final against Real Betis on Wednesday, an opportunity to cap their season with silverware.

Following that, the Blues will travel to the United States for the Club World Cup, starting with a match against Mexico’s León on June 16.