Liverpool Closing In on Hugo Ekitike in Deal Worth Over £70m

Liverpool are edging closer to completing the signing of Eintracht Frankfurt striker Hugo Ekitike, with negotiations reportedly at an advanced stage over a deal valued above £70 million.

The Merseyside club are hoping to finalise the move before the weekend, having submitted an offer that exceeds a previously rejected £70 million bid from Newcastle United.

Ekitike, 23, is believed to be open to joining the Premier League champions, who are actively seeking a natural centre-forward to bolster their attacking options. The French forward impressed last season, scoring 15 goals in 31 Bundesliga starts as Frankfurt secured a third-place finish.

Beyond his goalscoring prowess, Ekitike has also been a creative force. His tally of eight assists placed him among the top 6% of forwards in Germany for chance creation. He also led the Bundesliga in total shots with 117 and had an expected goals (xG) figure of 21.6 second only to the league’s top marksman.

While Liverpool are also admirers of Newcastle’s Alexander Isak, the Tyneside club have made it clear the Swedish striker is not available for transfer under any circumstances.

Ekitike’s potential arrival would continue Liverpool’s ambitious summer recruitment. The club have already secured midfielder Florian Wirtz for a fee that could break the British transfer record at £116 million. They have also strengthened their defence with the acquisitions of full-backs Milos Kerkez and Jeremie Frimpong for £40 million and £30 million respectively.

Meanwhile, with their pursuit of Ekitike faltering, Newcastle are expected to step up their efforts to sign Brentford’s Yoane Wissa in the coming days.

Ekitike’s Resurgence in Germany

Ekitike’s emergence at Frankfurt is seen as a major success for the German club’s scouting and recruitment system. After struggling for opportunities at Paris Saint-Germain, the former Reims prodigy found a new lease on life in the Bundesliga.

Initially joining on loan in early 2024, Frankfurt made his move permanent a year later. He thrived under manager Dino Toppmöller, functioning both as a lone striker and as part of a strike partnership, most notably with Omar Marmoush before the Egyptian’s January move to Manchester City.

In the latter part of the campaign, Ekitike led the line with two attacking midfielders behind him, showing adaptability in different systems. Though not known for blistering pace, he compensates with clever movement and positional awareness. His understanding of pressing schemes also makes him a valuable asset in both offensive and defensive transitions.

Ekitike’s versatility and intelligence on the pitch could prove vital for Liverpool as they prepare for another demanding campaign across multiple competitions.