Everton Football Club has reportedly extended a verbal proposition to Paris Saint-Germain’s forward sensation, Hugo Ekitike, as reported by Sportzone. The offer on the table stands at €35 million, accompanied by an additional €5 million contingent on performance-based bonuses, for the 21-year-old striker.
Amidst their summer ambitions, the Toffees harbor a strong desire to incorporate this rising star of French youth football into their ranks. However, this endeavor is not devoid of competition. As their intentions face a challenge from Premier League counterparts West Ham United and Bundesliga contenders Eintracht Frankfurt.
Everton, cognizant of their need for a fresh offensive thrust, find themselves amidst the pursuit of a new striker. The persistent battle with injuries endured by Dominic Calvert-Lewin serves as a clarion call for reinforcement. Despite his current fitness status, as evidenced by his 45-minute appearances in their recent pre-season matches. Everton understands the necessity for contingency.
The English striker, reflecting upon his struggle-laden journey through injury cycles, sets his sights on a rejuvenated season. However, with prudence in mind. Everton recognizes the wisdom in securing a replacement striker should Calvert-Lewin find himself sidelined once again. Amidst their deliberations, Hugo Ekitike emerges as a prime contender for this crucial role.
Ekitike’s PSG odyssey began last summer, initiated through a loan agreement that culminated in a permanent transfer this year, the sum of which hovered around €30 million. Though the inaugural season at Parc des Princes presented challenges, as reflected in his tally of four goals across 32 appearances, his recent pre-season exploits paint a different picture. Ekitike’s performance showcased brilliance, underscoring his readiness to spearhead the offensive line for the reigning Ligue 1 champions. Nevertheless, uncertainties cloud his continuity within the club.
Notwithstanding the hurdles encountered during his debut PSG campaign, Ekitike’s latent potential has garnered the attention of prospective suitors. West Ham, having bid adieu to Gianluca Scamacca, who found solace in Atalanta after an underwhelming English stint, has placed Ekitike on their list of potential successors for the Italian forward.
Eintracht Frankfurt has also directed their gaze towards Ekitike as an ideal acquisition. Yet, their primary emphasis resides upon the pursuit of Montpellier’s Elye Wahi, even though their aspirations face formidable competition from the likes of Atletico Madrid, Chelsea, and Tottenham Hotspur in securing the services of this budding striker.
While the course of PSG’s decision regarding Ekitike’s future remains shrouded in ambiguity. The arrival of Goncalo Ramos from Benfica introduces a potential shift in the pecking order within the club’s attacking lineup. Ekitike, given his ambitions, may find himself reluctant to play second fiddle for a second consecutive season.