Chelsea have reacted to Manchester United’s fresh transfer interest in Hugo Ekitike in a way that will encourage Rúben Amorim this summer window.
Manchester United are looking to revamp their attack this summer following a disappointing 2024/25 season that ended with a 15th-place finish in the Premier League, driven by a lack of cutting edge in front of goal.
Bruno Fernandes was the club’s top scorer with 19 goals, while Alejandro Garnacho and Amad each scored 11. Rasmus Højlund added 10, and no other player reached double digits across all competitions.
United have already agreed a deal to sign Matheus Cunha from Wolves, and there is increasing confidence that an agreement for Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo is close.
Still, the search for a central striker continues. 22-year-old Eintracht Frankfurt striker Hugo Ekitike is a player United have registered reported “concrete interest” in following his fantastic 22-goal campaign in Germany.
Chelsea react to United’s Ekitike interest
Amidst United’s decision to explore the possibility of signing £85 million-rated Ekitike this summer, Chelsea have reacted to the interest by pivoting elsewhere.
Ekitike has made it known that he was a fan of United growing up, and according to Bundesliga transfer expert Christian Falk, the London club, who have been keen on Ekitike for much of his summer, have turned to VfB Stuttgart and Germany striker Nick Woltemade.
“Chelsea FC have submitted enquiries to Nick Woltemade’s management team. There have been talks,” Falk explained to CaughtOffside.
“The Londoners have been monitoring the striker for some time. Chelsea enquired about the contract until 2028 and were informed that there is no clause for an early transfer. Atletico Madrid are also interested in the striker.”
Is Ekitike a gamble worth taking?
Although Chelsea turning their heads elsewhere amid United’s interest in Ekitike is a big boost for Amorim, it has been well documented that United do not have sufficient funds to sign high-quality players in every position needed this summer.
Amorim himself has been keen to stress that his rebuild will not be executed in one summer, but that the club will look to secure some key positions.
With Cunha through the door and United working on bringing in Mbeumo despite interest from Tottenham, Ekitike may be a player worth breaking the bank for, even if it means the club may have to sacrifice in other positions.
There have been reports that United would ideally like to sign a new goalkeeper and right wing-back, alongside three new forwards and a new midfielder. However, with these positions being less of a priority, United could forego reinforcing in these two areas and instead look to secure Ekitike.
The 22-year-old French forward is well known to be one of the most talented young strikers in Europe. Although he would likely cost a high transfer fee, his lower wage demands compared to those of Viktor Gyökeres and Victor Osimhen could be a boost for the club.
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