Chelsea’s attack is poised for huge changes ahead of the 2025/26 season at Stamford Bridge.
After their recent Conference League victory, manager Enzo Maresca suggested the club still needs to strengthen its striking options, despite Nicolas Jackson scoring in that final.
The club has already reached an agreement to sign Liam Delap and plans to officially announce his arrival soon. Delap is expected to be part of Chelsea’s squad for the upcoming Club World Cup.
However, rumors indicate Chelsea want to add more than just one striker this summer. Several other forwards remain on their shortlist.
One top target is Hugo Ekitike from Eintracht Frankfurt. The talented forward has caught the eye of several elite teams, including Premier League holders Liverpool.
Chelsea appear determined to lead the race for Ekitike, with journalist Simon Phillips reporting that the club has agreed personal terms with the player over the weekend.
Phillips wrote on his Substack:
“Chelsea aim to bring in two strikers this transfer window. The second signing, in addition to Delap, could still happen before the Club World Cup, with positive progress made recently.
“Sources close to the club say Chelsea have broadly agreed personal terms with Frankfurt’s Hugo Ekitike following more discussions with his representatives.
“Frankfurt remain firm on their £80 million asking price for Ekitike, but Chelsea are negotiating to bring that figure down. Confidence is growing within Chelsea that a deal can be struck, especially now that terms with the player are mostly settled.
“Frankfurt already have a replacement lined up, signaling they are willing to sell as the player wants to move on.”
If Chelsea complete the Ekitike deal, it’s unlikely they will enter the new season with three main striker options.
This could open the door for other clubs to pursue Nicolas Jackson, who has been frustrated at Chelsea despite delivering solid Premier League performances across two seasons.
Meanwhile, Christopher Nkunku’s future at Chelsea looks uncertain. Young talent Marc Guiu is also expected to be loaned to Strasbourg following the success of Andrey Santos there.
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