Chelsea’s Champions League qualification has opened the floodgates for a summer spending spree — and top of their shopping list is Eintracht Frankfurt’s sensational striker Hugo Ekitike. The 22-year-old French forward, who has dazzled in the Bundesliga with 22 goals and 12 assists this season, is reportedly “strongly considered” by Chelsea as they hunt for a lethal goal scorer to spearhead Enzo Maresca’s attacking plans next season.
After clinching a hard-fought 1-0 win over Nottingham Forest, sealing fourth place in the Premier League, Chelsea have not only secured a return to Europe’s elite competition but also boosted their purse strings substantially. This financial windfall means the Blues are ready to splash an astronomical fee — around €100 million (£83.9 million) — to bring Ekitike to Stamford Bridge.
Ekitike’s rise has been meteoric. Having joined Frankfurt permanently in 2024 following a loan from Paris Saint-Germain, the France Under-21 international has already amassed an impressive 26 goals and 14 assists in just 64 Bundesliga appearances. His ability to combine clinical finishing with creative link-up play fits perfectly with Maresca’s vision for a dynamic and ruthless frontline.
Chelsea’s recruitment team, led by Joe Shields, has also been eyeing other striking talents such as Sporting Lisbon’s Viktor Gyokeres and Ipswich Town’s rising star Liam Delap. The English Under-21 international is particularly intriguing for the Blues, who are reportedly ready to meet his £30 million release clause. Delap, who has a personal connection to Maresca from his academy days at Manchester City, is said to be keen on making the Stamford Bridge move.
The Blues’ aggressive pursuit reflects a broader strategy to revamp their attack in preparation for the rigors of the Champions League. “We are looking at several options, but Hugo is high on our list,” an insider revealed. With Maresca eager to reshape the squad, Chelsea fans can expect an exciting summer of transfer activity.
As the transfer window heats up, all eyes will be on whether Chelsea can land their marquee signing and finally deliver a striking force capable of conquering Europe.
