Mon. Jul 28th, 2025

Arsenal to Sign Hugo Ekitike, Dubbed “Next Mbappe”

Arsenal have faced injury challenges in their attacking lineup recently, limiting Mikel Arteta’s choices. Key players like Kai Havertz, Gabriel Jesus, Gabriel Martinelli, and Bukayo Saka have all been sidelined in 2025, impacting Arsenal’s Premier League title aspirations.

Currently, Arsenal is second in the league, but trails Liverpool by a significant 15 points with only 10 games remaining, making their chances of winning the title very slim.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta celebrates after the match

Arsenal supporters are eager for success, especially after finishing second in the previous two seasons and potentially again this year.

To progress further, the club’s management, including incoming sporting director Andrea Berta, needs to support Arteta in the summer transfer window, possibly by investing in a player who can elevate the team.

Arsenal Scouting Hugo Ekitike

Reports indicate that Arsenal is among several English clubs scouting Eintracht Frankfurt striker Hugo Ekitike for a potential summer transfer.

Newcastle United and Liverpool are also reportedly interested in the French forward, who has impressed in the Bundesliga this season.

hugo-ekitike-frankfurt

The 22-year-old has scored 18 goals and provided six assists in 36 appearances, currently being the seventh-highest scorer in the league.

While the transfer fee for Ekitike is uncertain, reports suggest he desires a move to England and Champions League football, potentially giving Arsenal an advantage in securing him.

Ekitike vs. Isak Comparison in 2024/25

Alexander Isak has been a long-term target for Arsenal, but his high price tag from Newcastle United has been a hurdle.

Alexander Isak in action for Newcastle

Isak’s estimated £150m valuation could deter Arsenal. However, he has a strong goalscoring record with 57 goals in 99 games for Newcastle, including 22 this season.

While Isak’s quality is undeniable, Ekitike could be a more affordable alternative with similar potential impact.

Statistics suggest Ekitike is comparable to Isak, showing similar performance levels this season.

FBref similar players Ekitike

Ekitike, likened to “the next Mbappe,” might have slightly fewer goal contributions but has a higher shots-on-target rate, indicating his attacking threat.

Ekitike vs. Isak Stats 2024/25
Statistics (per 90) Ekitike Isak
Games played 24 25
Goals & assists 16 24
Progressive carries 3.1 2.8
Shots on target 1.6 1.3
Pass accuracy 78% 74%
Take-ons completed 1.9 1.5
Aerials won 41% 33%

Ekitike also surpasses Isak in take-ons and aerial duels won, suggesting he could offer a more versatile forward profile, something Arsenal has sought.

While Isak remains a preferred choice for many fans, Ekitike has demonstrated significant talent and could be an excellent addition to Arsenal’s attack.

Considering his goalscoring record, Ekitike will likely command a significant fee, but his desire to play in England could make him a worthwhile investment for Arsenal’s Premier League ambitions.

By Aditya Kapur

Aditya Kapur, a seasoned sports journalist from Mumbai, has dedicated over 15 years to covering Indian sports. His profound understanding of cricket and kabaddi has made him one of the country's most respected analysts. Working for Mumbai's largest sports publications, he developed a unique system for analyzing cricket betting odds. Aditya regularly travels between Mumbai and Delhi, covering major Indian Premier League tournaments. His sports analytics Telegram channel has gathered over 50,000 subscribers. He is particularly valued for his insider knowledge of cricket teams' behind-the-scenes life and accurate predictions for international matches.

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