Chelsea Eyes £84M Hugo Ekitike Amidst Striker Search

Chelsea is reportedly eyeing Eintracht Frankfurt's Hugo Ekitike as a potential striker signing, with an astonishing £84 million price tag emerging. This interest comes as the Blues look to bolster their attacking options, even after securing Liam Delap. Ekitike's impressive season in the Bundesliga has made him a sought-after talent, despite concerns over his xG underperformance.

Chelsea's Striker Search Intensifies

Chelsea's pursuit of a new striker continues, even with the imminent arrival of Liam Delap from Ipswich Town for £30 million. The club, fresh off a top-five Premier League finish and Champions League qualification, is now focusing on further attacking reinforcements. Hugo Ekitike, the 22-year-old Eintracht Frankfurt forward, has emerged as a primary target.

Ekitike's Performance and Price Tag

Ekitike had a standout season for Frankfurt, scoring 15 goals in the Bundesliga and an additional seven across the German Cup and Europa League, helping his team qualify for the Champions League. However, his impressive goal tally comes with a significant caveat: an xG (expected goals) underperformance, with his 15 goals coming from an xG of 22.55. Despite this, Frankfurt is reportedly demanding a hefty £84 million (€100 million) for his services, a figure that has drawn interest from other top clubs, including Liverpool.

Injury Concerns and Market Value

Ekitike's recent injury, which forced him to withdraw from the upcoming U21 European Championships due to back pain, has prevented interested clubs from further assessing him in action. This means clubs will have to rely solely on his club performance. Despite the high asking price and xG concerns, some experts believe Ekitike's potential justifies the fee, even rating him above other highly-touted strikers like Benjamin Sesko and Viktor Gyokeres.

Key Takeaways

• Chelsea is actively pursuing Hugo Ekitike from Eintracht Frankfurt.
• Frankfurt is demanding £84 million (€100 million) for the 22-year-old striker.
• Ekitike scored 15 Bundesliga goals last season but showed a significant xG underperformance.
• An injury has sidelined Ekitike from the U21 European Championships, limiting further scouting opportunities.
• Despite the high price and xG concerns, some analysts consider Ekitike a top-tier attacking talent.

Sources

• Hugo Ekitike to Chelsea transfer latest after announcement made as £84m twist emerges, Football London.
• Chelsea are about to sign £84m striker better than Viktor Gyokeres and Benjamin Sesko, Football London.