Arsenal’s hunt for a title-shaping striker has taken a fresh twist.
German outlet Bild reports the Gunners are firmly in the race for Eintracht Frankfurt’s Hugo Ekitike, joining Liverpool, Chelsea, and Manchester United in pursuit.
Mikel Arteta’s side have been chasing a centre-forward to finally turn near-misses into silverware. Benjamin Sesko remains the top target, while Viktor Gyokeres sits as a strong alternative.
But Ekitike’s breakout season in Germany—22 goals and 12 assists—has drawn serious attention. The 23-year-old blends finesse with strength, capable of linking play and running at defenders with menace, a skillset reminiscent of the modern elite striker.
Even so, there’s doubt over Arsenal’s true intent. The whispers may be fuelled more by agents than by concrete movement from the Emirates.
Arsenal have monitored Sesko since last year but have balked at the £68–85 million Leipzig demand. Gyokeres, valued closer to £68 million, feels like the more realistic play should Sesko slip away.
Ekitike’s path to north London is further complicated by Frankfurt’s stance. The Bundesliga side will not sell for under £85 million—a figure Arsenal are unwilling to stretch to unless left without options.
With funds potentially earmarked for a high-end winger, splashing heavily on an additional forward is a risk they seem reluctant to take.
For now, the Frenchman’s name lingers on the periphery of Arsenal’s plans. If Sesko and Gyokeres are secured elsewhere, doors may open.
Until then, Ekitike looks more like a subplot than the headline act in Arsenal’s summer story.