Crystal Palace will look to sign Eintracht Frankfurt striker Hugo Ekitike
Crystal Palace are considering a move for Eintracht Frankfurt striker Hugo Ekitike as a possible replacement for Jean-Philippe Mateta, should the latter leave the club this summer.
Ekitike, a 22-year-old French forward, has been linked with several Premier League clubs in recent transfer windows, and this summer could finally see him make the highly anticipated move to English football. According to sources close to TEAMtalk, the player is eager to test himself in the Premier League, and his representatives are actively exploring opportunities to facilitate his transfer.
The striker’s journey has been anything but smooth. After making a name for himself at Stade Reims, where his raw talent and goal-scoring prowess attracted the attention of top European clubs, Ekitike secured a high-profile move to Paris Saint-Germain in 2022. However, his time at the French giants proved to be challenging. Struggling to earn regular playing time and adapt to the club’s high expectations, he managed only four goals in 33 appearances over two seasons, often finding himself on the fringes of the squad.
Seeking a fresh start, Ekitike joined Eintracht Frankfurt on an initial loan deal in January 2023, which was later made permanent last summer. The move has revitalized his career, with the young striker rediscovering his form and confidence. Since arriving in Germany, Ekitike has demonstrated his immense potential, netting an impressive 23 goals in 55 games. His ability to find the back of the net consistently has attracted the attention of clubs across Europe, and Crystal Palace appears to be among the keenest suitors.
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For Crystal Palace, securing a proven goal-scorer is crucial, especially if they lose Mateta. The Eagles have been striving to bolster their attacking options in recent years, and adding a player of Ekitike’s caliber could significantly enhance their firepower. With his combination of pace, technical ability, and finishing skills, Ekitike could provide the cutting edge Palace needs in front of goal.
Additionally, Ekitike has already demonstrated his international pedigree, having represented France at the U21 level. In just three appearances, he has scored twice, further highlighting his potential to succeed at the highest level. His youth and versatility make him an attractive prospect for any team looking to build for the future.
Despite his improved performances at Frankfurt, Ekitike’s desire to play in the Premier League suggests that a move this summer is highly likely. Whether Crystal Palace will be able to secure his signature remains to be seen, as competition from other English clubs could complicate negotiations. However, Palace’s intent to strengthen their attacking options makes Ekitike a viable target.
As the summer transfer window approaches, Crystal Palace fans will be eagerly watching to see if their club can land a promising talent like Ekitike. If the move materializes, the young Frenchman could be a vital addition to the Eagles’ squad, potentially playing a key role in their ambitions for the upcoming season.
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Should Crystal Palace sign Hugo Ekitike?
Bologna-born Giuseppe Bianchi has spent more than a decade living in Rome and writing about Italian football, Spanish football and the Premier League for various Italian football portals and now he writes about European football for Euro Football Rumours. He's been thinking about football transfers pretty much nonstop since the 1990 FIFA World Cup in Italy. Aside from writing, he likes to spend his time fishing and rock climbing.
