Chelsea Making Progress on Jamie Gittens Transfer While Hugo Ekitike Pursuit Hits Financial Roadblock – Fabrizio Romano Exclusive
Chelsea continue to remain highly active in the summer transfer market as they look to strengthen their squad ahead of the new season. According to transfer insider Fabrizio Romano, the West London club is now making significant strides in negotiations to sign Jamie Gittens from Borussia Dortmund.
The Blues have intensified talks with the German club and are hoping to finalize an agreement soon. On the player’s side, everything is already in place—Gittens has given his full approval to a long-term contract offer from Chelsea, which is reported to be a seven-year deal. With the player’s commitment secured, Chelsea are now focused on reaching a final agreement with Dortmund to complete the transfer.
This move comes shortly after Borussia Dortmund confirmed the arrival of Jobe Bellingham, younger brother of Jude Bellingham. Now, Chelsea are looking to go the other way and bring in Dortmund’s Jamie Gittens as one of their priority signings for the summer.
Gittens a Priority Over Garnacho
While Jamie Gittens remains the main focus, Chelsea are still keeping an eye on other attacking options. One such player is Manchester United’s Alejandro Garnacho, who remains a name of interest at Stamford Bridge. However, Chelsea are not alone in their admiration for the young Argentine winger.
Garnacho is reportedly on the radar of several top clubs, and with his future at Manchester United uncertain, more developments are expected in the coming weeks. Bayer Leverkusen have also shown interest in signing Garnacho, although it is believed that his price tag may be out of reach for the German side.
Despite Garnacho being a player that Chelsea continue to rate highly, their current focus is firmly on securing Gittens, who they see as a more attainable and immediate target.
Chelsea Admire Hugo Ekitike, But Deal Hindered by High Price Tag
Another name that has emerged as a serious target for Chelsea is Hugo Ekitike. The French striker, who had an impressive season in the Bundesliga with Eintracht Frankfurt, is well-liked within Chelsea’s recruitment department. Even after the recent signing of Liam Delap from Ipswich Town, the Blues remain interested in bolstering their attacking options further, and Ekitike is high on their list.
However, despite their strong admiration for the player, a potential deal for Ekitike currently appears unlikely due to financial reasons. Eintracht Frankfurt have reportedly placed a steep €100 million asking price on the striker, a figure Chelsea are not currently prepared to meet.
At this stage, discussions between the clubs have not advanced beyond initial inquiries, with Chelsea exploring the feasibility of a deal. Unless the asking price drops significantly or the club adjusts its transfer strategy later in the window, a move for Ekitike seems unlikely to materialize—at least in the short term. For now, any deal is on hold, and there is no expectation that it will progress in time for the upcoming Club World Cup.
Nonetheless, Chelsea remain long-time admirers of Ekitike and have been monitoring him closely throughout the season, during which he showcased his talent and potential in Germany. If circumstances change later in the summer, the Blues may revisit the situation.
Final Thoughts
As Chelsea continue to reshape their squad under the guidance of their recruitment team, Jamie Gittens looks set to become their next signing—provided they can finalize terms with Borussia Dortmund. While players like Garnacho and Ekitike remain under consideration, financial and competitive hurdles make those transfers more complex for now.
Chelsea fans can expect a busy few weeks ahead as the club continues to push forward in the transfer market, targeting young, talented players with long-term potential.