Chelsea are among a number of big clubs looking to pounce on Newcastle's January transfer failure by signing young French star Hugo Ekitike in the summer amid doubts over Armando Broja's future.
Ekitike, 19, is a man in demand after his failed deadline day move to Tyneside has opened the doors for other Premier League clubs to swoop in come the end of the season.
Amanda Staveley and co made the last minute decision to approach Reims for the forward and despite the French minnows accepting a late bid from the Toon, he himself decided he wanted to stay in his native country until the end of the season at the very least.
Now that January is over, the youngster has gotten back to focusing on matters on the pitch, and his 12 goal contributions in 19 Ligue 1 outings has pricked up the ears of clubs all across Europe, including the Premier League.
According to 90min, Chelsea had scouts at his game this weekend against Bordeaux - one in which they won 5-0 and the player in question managed to get himself on the scoresheet - as the Blues now contemplate making a move for the rising star themselves. But they're not alone in keeping an eye on the young star.
Liverpool's interest stems from the fact that Jurgen Klopp, as shown by the Harvey Elliott example, wants to develop more youth talent as the Reds plan for a future with potential superstars in the making like Ekitike.
Man United are also said to be keeping tabs on the attacker, whilst Arsenal still need to replace Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang who, unlike the 19-year-old, did end up moving to a new club in the form of Barcelona.
Therefore, it's set to be a tight and tense transfer pursuit for whomever comes out on top but the Blues' fortunes and end result could hinge on what happens with young loanee Armando Broja.
football.london understands that Southampton are in talks over a permanent move but Thomas Tuchel is wanting to see the 20-year-old in pre-season training before making a final decision, which could then trigger a move for a new striker to come in to compete in the current squad roster.
"He knows how important it is for him as a player to play continuously," Hasenhuttl responded, unmoved by suggestions of heightened interest elsewhere from other Premier League clubs and sides around Europe, as per the Daily Echo.
"Here he gets that chance and has shown he fits to us and our shape. There are a lot of examples where players after changing clubs do not perform like they have done with us."
The Austrian added: "It is important he knows this and that his agent knows this.
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"We have a good relationship with Chelsea and are in good contact. He is their player. We have tried to develop him here, and I think we have.
"If they think we should do it another year and do not want to sell him in the summer, then there is no better spot to be,” he added, suggesting that Saints will lead the race for a further loan spell, if that is to be Chelsea’s decision.
"It is not always in our hands and if he or the club have any other ideas, it is how it is."
