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Chelsea keeping tabs on 19-year-old Ligue 1 talent amidst Man United interest

Transfer News: Chelsea sent scouts to watch Manchester United target Hugo Ekitike.
Transfer News: Chelsea sent scouts to watch Manchester United target Hugo Ekitike. (Photo by FRANCK FIFE/AFP via Getty Images)

Transfer News: Chelsea sent scouts to watch Manchester United target Hugo Ekitike

According to 90min (h/t Football.London), Chelsea sent their scouts to assess the profile of Stade Reims striker Hugo Ekitike, who is a transfer target for Manchester United. He has garnered a lot of attention recently, having impressed with the Ligue 1 side throughout the season.

Ekitike was subjected to a failed attempt from Newcastle United to sign him in the January transfer window. Reims had accepted the offer, but the player refused to move to St. James’ Park. As a result, several Premier League clubs are on alert ahead of the upcoming summer transfer window.

The Blues scouted the Frenchman this weekend as he scored in the 5-0 drubbing of Bordeaux, further solidifying their interest. Arsenal and Liverpool have also included the 19-year-old on their shortlists alongside Man United as they look to secure his services. Thomas Tuchel’s side would only pursue him depending on Armando Broja’s future as he could permanently join Southampton.

Transfer News: Chelsea sent scouts to watch Manchester United target Hugo Ekitike.  (Photo by FRANCOIS NASCIMBENI/AFP via Getty Images)
Hugo Ekitike has interest from a host of clubs including Man United. (Photo by FRANCOIS NASCIMBENI/AFP via Getty Images)

Ekitike to Man Utd?

The 19-year-old has featured in 22 matches this season and has scored ten goals alongside three assists across all competitions. The prodigy has truly hit the strides this campaign, attracting attention from England as a result. The failed attempt from Newcastle could be helpful for us since should we d decide to move for him at the end of the season.

A potential transfer would not be easy for obvious reasons due to the interest from the other “Big 6” clubs. Among them, the Reds and the current Champions League holders are the major threats due to their sporting success in recent years. However, we cannot afford to overlook the Gunners as they could provide him with a suitable environment for growth, not to mention regular playing time.

The Ligue 1 youngster showcased a knack for putting the ball in the back of the net in a short time. His ability to dribble past opponents with ease, coupled with his link-up play, makes him an exciting prospect for us. Moreover, his defensive output by pressing from the front would perfectly suit the high pressing system we are playing under Ralf Rangnick.

Transfer News: Chelsea sent scouts to watch Manchester United target Hugo Ekitike. (Photo by PASCAL POCHARD-CASABIANCA/AFP via Getty Images)
Man United battle Arsenal, Liverpool and Chelsea for Hugo Ekitike. (Photo by PASCAL POCHARD-CASABIANCA/AFP via Getty Images)

More Manchester United News

We could also lose Edinson Cavani and Jesse Lingard on a free at the end of this season. Anthony Martial’s future is still uncertain, whereas Cristiano Ronaldo could take a backseat as he cannot play every single game. As such, we have spots available for the talented starlet for the next season. Now it is up to the board to get him into the squad so as not to lose out on a future superstar in the making to our direct rivals.

Written by Rijo Sam Daniel

A football enthusiast who is madly in love with the game

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