Chelsea’s transfer tug-of-war: Ekitike talks stall as Bynoe-Gittens deal nears

DDM News

Chelsea are reportedly hesitating in their pursuit of striker Hugo Ekitike from Eintracht Frankfurt.

The 22-year-old forward had an outstanding Bundesliga season, scoring 22 goals in all competitions, Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) gathers.

His goal tally has made him one of Europe’s most coveted young attacking talents this summer.

Chelsea face strong competition from Liverpool for the Frenchman’s signature.

However, the Blues are reluctant to meet Frankfurt’s valuation of €100 million (£84.3 million).

Chelsea are reportedly only willing to offer up to €80 million (£67.4 million) for the player.

This €20 million gap in valuation has caused a stall in negotiations between the two clubs.

Time is running out, with the summer transfer window closing at 7 p.m. next Tuesday.

Frankfurt’s sporting director, Markus Krösche, addressed the transfer situation during an interview with Sport 1.

He stated that Ekitike remains a key player but acknowledged that the decision ultimately lies with the striker.

Krösche said, “He’s one of the most interesting strikers on the European market.”

He added, “If a player develops faster than us, we let him go.”

Further complicating matters, Ekitike recently withdrew from France’s Under-21 squad due to a back injury.

The full extent of the injury remains unclear, raising concerns about his fitness ahead of any transfer.

Despite the uncertainty, Chelsea are still in contention but may look elsewhere if talks collapse.

Meanwhile, Chelsea are closing in on a move for Jamie Bynoe-Gittens from Borussia Dortmund.

The 19-year-old winger has reportedly agreed to a seven-year deal with the West London club.

Talks between Chelsea and Dortmund are said to be progressing positively, with a deal expected soon.

Bynoe-Gittens came through Manchester City’s youth academy before moving to the Bundesliga.

He has impressed with his pace, dribbling, and flair, making him one of England’s rising stars.

Chelsea see the teenager as a high-upside investment for the future under new manager Enzo Maresca.

Maresca plans to rebuild the squad with a blend of youth and elite experience this summer.

Chelsea’s transfer push comes as they prepare to represent Europe in the FIFA Club World Cup.

Their opening match is on June 16 against Major League Soccer champions Los Angeles FC.

They will then face Brazilian side Flamengo and Tunisian club ES Tunis on June 20.

The latter two fixtures fall on the same day due to a congested tournament schedule.

With Ekitike’s future uncertain and Bynoe-Gittens close, Chelsea’s summer is shaping up to be dramatic.

The club’s ambition under Maresca is clear: build a competitive team capable of winning trophies at all levels.

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