Chelsea still in contention for French-Cameroonian striker Hugo Ekitike

Chelsea remain in contention to sign Eintracht Frankfurt striker Hugo Ekitike, despite mounting interest from other Premier League rivals.

The 22-year-old forward, of Cameroonian descent, has attracted significant attention this summer following his performances in the Bundesliga.

While Newcastle United have already had a £70 million bid rejected by Eintracht, Liverpool are also circling and may intensify their pursuit if their move for Alexander Isak fails.

Chelsea, meanwhile, are keeping close tabs on Ekitike’s situation and could make a late push.

The Blues have already bolstered their attacking options with the signings of Joao Pedro and Liam Delap, spending nearly £90 million in the process.

However, the club is still exploring the market for a more established centre-forward who can provide a consistent goal threat.

Ekitike, who joined Eintracht Frankfurt from Paris Saint-Germain, is represented by agent Ali Barat — the same agent who manages Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson.

That shared connection could facilitate talks should Chelsea choose to formalise their interest.

The West London club are reportedly open to selling or loaning Jackson, and view Ekitike as a natural fit for manager Enzo Maresca’s tactical plans.

With Newcastle struggling to meet Eintracht’s valuation and Liverpool yet to make a formal bid, Chelsea remain well-positioned to re-enter the race for the highly-rated striker.