A new name on Barça's agenda: Hugo Ekitike, the heir to Lewandowski?

The FC Barcelona continues to 'scan' the forward market in search of a medium- to long-term replacement for Robert Lewandowski at the front line. The club's sporting direction is following world-class figures like Alexander Isak or Viktor Gyökeres, but they are also keeping an eye on several of the most important current prospects, which could land in the Catalan city for an affordable fee.

In this regard, the portal 'Relevo' has revealed that the Catalan entity has begun to track Hugo Ekitike, a 22-year-old Frenchman who has stood out this season at Eintracht Frankfurt. The player arrived in Germany in January 2024 from Paris Saint-Germain and has managed to establish himself as the main reference in the offense of the team led by Dino Toppmöller.

This season, the Reims native has accumulated 19 goals and 8 assists in the 38 matches he has played. Standing at 1.90 meters tall, the forward is characterized by his physical power, goal-scoring efficiency, and mobility, being capable of playing both in the center of the attack and on the left flank, qualities that make him one of the most attractive pieces in the upcoming transfer market.

The price Barça should pay for Ekitike

Ekitike, for his part, admitted to being "ready for a new stage" in an interview with 'L'Equipe' a couple of weeks ago, so his departure during the summer window is not ruled out. His transfer fee would range between 30 and 35 million euros, an accessible amount considering his market value is 40 'kilos', according to 'Transfermarkt'.

The player, who has already been a U-21 international with France, is also being closely followed by Manchester United, which means that the Catalans would face tough competition if they decide to pursue his signing. However, the club's priority would currently be other figures, but the option of the Frenchman is very interesting and should be closely monitored from now until the end of the season.