Chelsea, with their eyes on dethroning the current Premier League champions Liverpool, have watched as the Reds secured the signing of French striker Hugo Ekitike for £79 million. According to reports from Germany, Chelsea’s early interest in the now-former Eintracht Frankfurt forward could have changed the summer transfer landscape entirely.
Liverpool announced today that Ekitike, 23, has officially joined them on a six-year contract after concluding his medical assessments in London. He is poised to join Liverpool’s pre-season camp in Hong Kong, set to lead Arne Slot’s forward line. Yet, this narrative might have looked remarkably different, had Chelsea altered a pivotal decision in their recruitment strategy.
German newspaper BILD divulged that English Premier League interest in Ekitike originated in February, with Arsenal and Liverpool in the frame. However, Stamford Bridge insiders were reportedly the first to engage in serious negotiations, initiating contact as early as May 21, just days before the closure of the 2024/25 season. These discussions were said to be concrete, hinting at Chelsea’s genuine interest.
Despite Ekitike withdrawing from France’s squad for the Under-21 European Championships citing ‘back problems’, suspicions arose when he continued training privately, suggesting his absence was indeed transfer-related.
Chelsea’s transfer strategy shifted with the arrival of striker Liam Delap from Ipswich Town for £30 million, followed by the acquisition of Joao Pedro from Brighton at a hefty £60 million fee. These moves purportedly left Ekitike ‘disappointed’, as Chelsea opted not to pursue him further.
Meanwhile, Al-Hilal, the Saudi Pro League club, expressed willingness to enter the fray with a blank cheque offer, yet Ekitike remained firm in his desire to move elsewhere. Newcastle United also emerged with an interest on July 15, only to see Liverpool swoop in successfully. After swiftly securing Ekitike’s commitment, the Magpies withdrew, paving the way for his anticipated move to Anfield.
Ekitike may have felt a pang of disappointment from Chelsea’s decision not to intensify their interest, but he now looks forward to the prospects of playing in England, donning Liverpool’s iconic red.