Arsenal have been heavily linked with several strikers ahead of the summer transfer window, with Alexander Isak and Benjamin Sesko emerging as their primary targets.
However, another name that has now surfaced as a potential option is Hugo Ekitike.
The French forward is reportedly being monitored by the Gunners as they look to strengthen their attacking options for next season.
Ekitike is set to be one of the most sought-after strikers in the upcoming transfer window, with multiple clubs across Europe expressing interest in signing him.
Among those keeping a close eye on his situation is Arsenal, who could consider him as an alternative to Isak.
Meanwhile, Newcastle United, who previously attempted to sign Ekitike, are also reigniting their interest.
The Magpies initially reached out to his representatives three years ago, hoping to secure his signature when he was still a teenager.
During the January transfer window in 2022, Newcastle had agreed to a £33 million deal with French club Reims for the striker.
However, the move ultimately did not go through, as Ekitike opted to remain at Reims amid interest from Borussia Dortmund and Paris Saint-Germain.
Later that summer, PSG successfully signed Ekitike, but his time in the French capital did not go as planned.
Limited game time over 18 months saw his development stall, leading to his eventual transfer to Eintracht Frankfurt in the Bundesliga.
Since moving to Germany, the young striker has managed to regain his form, showcasing the qualities that originally attracted interest from top European clubs, including Newcastle.
His resurgence has now put him back on Arsenal’s radar.
According to Sky Sport, the Gunners are tracking his situation but are not necessarily prioritizing him over their main targets, Isak and Sesko.
Reports from The Athletic suggest that while Ekitike is an option, Arsenal’s preference still leans towards the aforementioned duo.
One major advantage Ekitike holds over Isak is his potential transfer fee.
The Eintracht Frankfurt forward is expected to cost considerably less than the Swedish international.
While Isak’s release clause is rumored to be in the region of £70 million, Ekitike’s asking price would likely be more affordable.
Given Arsenal’s broader transfer strategy, securing Ekitike instead of Isak could allow them to allocate funds toward other reinforcements in the squad.
Furthermore, Newcastle’s willingness to pursue Ekitike could have a knock-on effect on Isak’s future.
If the Magpies succeed in signing their long-term target, they may become more open to selling Isak, which would be beneficial for Arsenal should they decide to intensify their pursuit of the Swedish striker.
Notably, Newcastle previously attempted to bring in Ekitike before eventually signing Isak, but at the time, PSG’s acquisition of the Frenchman prevented the deal from materializing.
Another crucial factor in the transfer equation is Newcastle’s qualification for the Champions League.
Their ability to secure a spot in Europe’s elite competition could significantly influence their transfer plans, as well as the futures of both Ekitike and Isak.
If Newcastle fail to qualify, they may be more inclined to offload Isak to balance their finances, further opening the door for Arsenal to make a move.
Ultimately, while Ekitike is not currently Arsenal’s top choice, his availability and affordability make him a viable alternative, particularly if they fail to land Sesko or Isak.
The coming months will be crucial in determining how Arsenal approach their striker hunt and whether Ekitike emerges as a genuine transfer target.
