Premier League Giants Face Stark Warning Over €100 Million Striker Pursuit
Eintracht Frankfurt's Chief Executive Officer Markus Krösche has cautioned potential suitors that striker Hugo Ekitiké will not depart the club unless their substantial valuation is satisfied during this transfer window.
Ekitiké initially formed a formidable attacking partnership with Omar Marmoush in the season's opening half, before taking center stage after the Egyptian's transfer to Manchester City in January, helping Frankfurt secure a third-place finish in the Bundesliga.
The French forward experienced his most successful professional campaign in 2024–25, netting 15 goals and providing eight assists for a resurgent Frankfurt squad that has earned a Champions League spot for the upcoming season.
Given his stellar performance and the numerous top European clubs seeking striking reinforcements, the 22-year-old has become a central figure in transfer speculation as the summer window commences, with Premier League giants Liverpool and Chelsea among those expressing interest.
Nevertheless, any club wishing to acquire Ekitiké must meet Frankfurt's substantial €100 million (£85.3 million, $115.9 million) asking price. The club's director Krösche has emphasized that the French attacker will remain at Frankfurt unless such an offer materializes.
"If the price isn't right, then he will stay with us," Krösche told Wiesbadener Kurier. "We don't have to sell Hugo."
Reports suggest Chelsea inquired about potential transfer terms several weeks ago but have since added Liam Delap to their attacking options. Liverpool, meanwhile, have reached a €150 million (£135.7 million, $184.3 million) deal with Bayer Leverkusen for Florian Wirtz and are unlikely to pursue another costly acquisition without first facilitating several major player departures.
The forward has been absent from action during the June international break due to back problems, which will also prevent his participation in the U21 European Championships. This limits further scouting opportunities this summer, though Frankfurt are scheduled for a pre-season fixture against Premier League side Fulham.
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