Chelsea’s transfer business is heating up, and their next target is already making headlines. Just hours after officially confirming the signing of Portuguese midfield talent Dário Essugo from Sporting CP, the Blues have now intensified their pursuit of Eintracht Frankfurt striker Hugo Ekitike.

The 22-year-old Frenchman enjoyed an impressive 2024/25 campaign in the Bundesliga, scoring 15 goals and providing 8 assists in 33 appearances. His sharp movement, technical ability, and growing composure in front of goal have caught the eye of several European giants, including Premier League rivals Arsenal and Liverpool.

According to L’Equipe, both Arsenal and Liverpool have made early enquiries, but it is Chelsea who are pushing hardest, accelerating their efforts in recent hours in a bid to get ahead of the competition.

Ekitike only joined Frankfurt permanently from PSG last summer, but his performances have been so convincing that he may already be on the move again. While his current deal runs until 2029, Frankfurt could be tempted to sell if the right offer is placed on the table.
There’s a twist, however—Ekitike has recently been ruled out of France’s U21 European Championship campaign due to a back injury, and that has prompted the striker to take a pause and reflect on his next career move.

Chelsea’s interest is strategic. With questions lingering over the long-term consistency of Nicolas Jackson, bringing in another dynamic forward could strengthen Enzo Maresca’s attacking options ahead of a busy campaign that includes Champions League football and the Club World Cup.

If Chelsea can move quickly, they may well steal a march on their Premier League rivals and land a striker who is fast becoming one of Europe’s most sought-after young forwards.