Arsenal are keeping a close eye on the evolving situation surrounding Eintracht Frankfurt striker Hugo Ekitike, with top Premier League rivals already moving aggressively to secure his signature.
According to Fichajes, Chelsea have tabled a €80 million bid for the 22-year-old, while Liverpool and Manchester City are also circling. The Gunners, long linked with the talented Frenchman, now face a crucial decision as the summer transfer window approaches.
Arsenal’s striker dilemma — and Ekitike’s fit
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With Mikel Arteta’s squad still lacking a natural, prolific number nine, Arsenal’s long-standing interest in Ekitike is no surprise. The French forward has enjoyed a breakout year at Eintracht Frankfurt, registering 22 goals and 12 assists in 48 appearances across all competitions this season. His combination of pace, technical skill, and sharp finishing would make him an intriguing addition to Arsenal’s front line.
For Arsenal, Ekitike offers something different from current options like Gabriel Jesus, Kai Havertz, and Mikel Merino — all of whom have been used in striker roles but lack the consistency Arteta craves.
Premier League rivals making moves
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The problem? Chelsea and Liverpool are both moving faster. Chelsea, still reeling from last summer’s failed pursuit of Victor Osimhen, appear determined to secure Ekitike with an €80 million bid. Liverpool, meanwhile, are positioning the Frenchman as a potential replacement for Darwin Núñez or Diogo Jota, whose futures remain uncertain.
Even Manchester City, despite boasting the likes of Erling Haaland and Omar Marmoush, have reportedly shown interest — likely looking to future-proof their squad amid an increasingly congested fixture calendar.
Should Arsenal jump into the race?
Arsenal’s pursuit of a new striker has been an open secret for months, with names like Viktor Gyokeres, and Benjamin Sesko repeatedly linked. While Ekitike’s numbers are impressive — particularly given his age and development curve — the €80 million price tag being floated represents a major gamble, especially considering his limited track record in top-five leagues.
There’s no doubt that Ekitike’s raw ability and ceiling are high, but Arteta and new sporting director Andrea Berta may prefer a player with proven Premier League experience or a more established goalscoring pedigree.
Frankfurt’s stance and what Arsenal must weigh
Frankfurt, already preparing for a possible sale, are unlikely to budge on valuation. Arsenal must decide quickly: either engage in a bidding war with Chelsea, Liverpool, and City, or pivot to other targets. With the need for a clinical, reliable striker at its most urgent, this could be a defining moment for the Gunners’ summer strategy.
Related Items:Eintracht Frankfurt, Hugo Ekitike, Liverpool, Manchester City
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