Chelsea’s summer transfer window is shaping up to be even busier than expected. With only a short window between the end of the season and the start of the Club World Cup, the Blues are moving fast to strengthen their squad.
The club views the upcoming tournament as a unique opportunity for new signings to gain match fitness and gel with the team — essentially treating it as an early preseason camp. As a result, there’s a clear urgency to get deals over the line.
This past week has been particularly intense. On one hand, Chelsea have already confirmed the signing of young striker Liam Delap, adding depth and potential to their attacking options. On the other, significant progress has been made in their pursuit of AC Milan goalkeeper Mike Maignan.
That deal is starting to look increasingly likely, with the club reportedly optimistic about agreeing on personal terms, even if a final transfer fee still needs to be nailed down.
However, the most surprising development involves the potential signing of Hugo Ekitike. Chelsea appear to be making a serious push to sign the French striker from Eintracht Frankfurt.
According to reports, particularly from The Daily Mirror, discussions between Chelsea and Ekitike’s camp have moved into an “advanced” stage, with the player’s side optimistic about a deal.
Ekitike, still only 22, is considered a major prospect and has drawn interest from Liverpool as well. However, Chelsea seem to be leading the race at this stage.
While there is mutual interest from both the club and the player, the most significant obstacle remains the transfer fee. Ekitike only joined Frankfurt last summer, and the Bundesliga side are in a strong financial position, especially after selling Omar Marmoush to Manchester City in January.
They are reportedly holding firm on their €100 million valuation, a figure Chelsea have no intention of meeting.
The club has “made it clear” they will not pay that amount, so negotiations will hinge on whether Frankfurt is willing to compromise.
Chelsea’s aggressive approach this early in the summer suggests they are determined to make an impact before the Club World Cup begins. If they can find middle ground with Frankfurt and finalize terms with Maignan, it could mark a transformative week for the club’s squad rebuild.
All signs indicate that Chelsea’s recruitment drive is not just ambitious, but also moving with serious pace — and more announcements could come sooner rather than later.
