Chelsea may have to be mindful of more clubs entering the race to sign Eintracht Frankfurt striker Hugo Ekitike.
The Blues have been heavily linked with signing the France Under-21 international this summer as they prepare for their return to the Champions League.
Enzo Maresca has already strengthened the striker department at Chelsea with the club signing Liam Delap in a £30million deal with Ipswich Town.
Ekitike’s future has been the subject of speculation for several months, with Chelsea frequently mentioned as a potential destination. The Blues will also apparently face competition from Liverpool for the striker this summer.
Now, a fresh report has emerged about Ekitike’s future. According to Sky Germany journalist Florian Plettenberg, Manchester United have now joined the race to sign Ekitike this summer.
The report claims that the Red Devils have already made an approach to Ekitike’s representatives about a move this summer. It has also been reported that United are now in talks with Frankfurt about a deal to sign Ekitike, although they are yet to decide whether or not to try and bring the striker to Old Trafford.
Chelsea are mentioned in the report as still having an interest in signing Ekitike despite Man United joining the race.
Frankfurt are reported to value Ekitike at around £85million this summer, and it remains to be seen if Chelsea will continue to pursue a deal for the striker.
This summer will not only see Chelsea look to strengthen their squad in the transfer market but also take part in the FIFA Club World Cup. Monday night will see their first group stage fixture against LAFC, they will go on to face ES Tunis and Flamengo later in the competition.
