Arsenal have started talks to sign a £70 million striker after witnessing him net a hat-trick

Arsenal has begun negotiations to sign Hugo Ekitike, a talented striker currently valued at £70 million, following his impressive hat-trick performance.

According to exclusive reports from TBR Football, the club is closely monitoring his situation at Eintracht Frankfurt as they consider strengthening their attacking options.

Ekitike has been in exceptional form since leaving Paris Saint-Germain last summer, scoring 19 goals in 38 appearances for Frankfurt. His performances have caught the attention of several top clubs, including Arsenal, who are evaluating him as an alternative to Alexander Isak.

Frankfurt has developed a reputation for nurturing top-class strikers, with Randal Kolo Muani and Omar Marmoush being prime examples. This successful track record played a role in Ekitike’s decision to join the Bundesliga side.

Alongside Arsenal, Liverpool, Newcastle United, and Aston Villa are also keeping an eye on the 22-year-old French forward. Newcastle, in particular, had expressed interest in signing him when he moved from Reims to PSG in 2023, but the deal did not materialize. Now, with his strong performances in Germany, there is renewed interest from Premier League clubs, increasing the likelihood of a move to England this summer.

During the recent international break, scouts from Arsenal, Liverpool, and Newcastle attended France U21s’ thrilling 5-3 victory over England, where Ekitike stole the spotlight with a hat-trick. His ability to score in different ways highlighted his versatility and clinical finishing, making him an attractive prospect for top clubs.

Frankfurt is reportedly willing to consider offers for Ekitike, with an initial asking price of £70 million. However, there is speculation that they might accept a bid closer to £60 million, similar to the fee they received for Marmoush when he moved to Manchester City.

Furthermore, intermediaries have informed English clubs that a bid exceeding £50 million could be enough to secure the striker, given that Frankfurt initially acquired him from PSG for around £15 million.

While Ekitike is open to a move to England, his representatives are not committed to any specific club at the moment. With the World Cup on the horizon next year, the young forward is likely to prioritize a team where he can secure regular playing time.

Arsenal, given their need for attacking reinforcements, could be an appealing destination for him, especially considering his current form and potential to thrive in the Premier League.