Liverpool in Advanced Talks to Sign Hugo Ekitike from Eintracht Frankfurt for Over £70m

Liverpool are closing in on the signing of Eintracht Frankfurt striker Hugo Ekitike in a deal set to exceed £70 million. Multiple sources have confirmed that the Premier League giants are in advanced negotiations with Frankfurt and aim to finalize the transfer by this weekend.

The move comes after Newcastle United had a £70 million bid for Ekitike rejected by Frankfurt, with Liverpool's offer expected to surpass that figure. The 23-year-old French forward is reportedly keen on making the switch to Anfield, where he would join a squad in need of a central striker.

A Clinical and Versatile Forward

Ekitike’s statistics from last season make him one of the most exciting young strikers in Europe. The 23-year-old netted 15 goals in 31 starts for Frankfurt as they finished third in the Bundesliga, showcasing his clinical finishing ability. But Ekitike’s game is not limited to goal-scoring alone; he also proved to be an effective provider, registering 8 assists. This places him in the top 6% among forwards in Germany for chances created during the 2024-25 campaign.

Ekitike’s 117 shots on goal were the most by any player in the Bundesliga last season, underlining his constant threat in the attacking third. His expected goals (xG) figure of 21.6 was the second-highest in the league, demonstrating that his performances are not a result of luck, but rather intelligent positioning and consistent finishing.

The French forward’s ability to influence games goes beyond the final third. Ekitike’s tactical understanding and versatility make him a valuable asset. He is not confined to the box, often roaming and swapping positions with his teammates. His smart movement and clever off-the-ball runs make him a tricky opponent for defenders, and he can contribute defensively, applying pressure high up the pitch or in midfield.

Liverpool’s Striker Search

Liverpool’s interest in Ekitike is part of their ongoing search for a central striker, with manager Jürgen Klopp keen to strengthen his attacking options. While Liverpool has already bolstered their squad this summer with the signings of midfielder Florian Wirtz in a potential British record deal worth £116 million, and full-backs Milos Kerkez and Jeremie Frimpong for £40 million and £30 million, respectively, the addition of a top-class striker remains a priority.

Ekitike’s versatility and high tactical understanding fit Klopp’s playing style, which relies on fluid attacking play and defensive pressing. As a striker capable of playing both as a lone forward or in a partnership, Ekitike would complement the likes of Mohamed Salah, Darwin Núñez, and Luis Díaz in Liverpool’s forward line.

However, Liverpool are not the only Premier League club interested in Ekitike. Newcastle United had previously shown significant interest in the Frenchman, offering £70 million for his services. But with Frankfurt rejecting their bid, Newcastle are now looking elsewhere. The Magpies are reportedly set to turn their attention to Brentford’s Yoane Wissa, accelerating their pursuit of the striker within the next 24 hours.

Ekitike’s Journey to Frankfurt

Ekitike’s rise to prominence has been anything but straightforward. The French forward initially caught the attention of European clubs during his time at Reims, where his performances attracted interest from top sides, including Newcastle. However, Ekitike opted to join Paris Saint-Germain in 2022, but struggled to break into the starting lineup amid the wealth of attacking talent at the French club.

His move to Eintracht Frankfurt in early 2024 proved to be a turning point in his career. Initially joining on loan, Ekitike impressed enough for Frankfurt to sign him permanently a year later. Under manager Dino Toppmoller, Ekitike’s role evolved from a lone striker to a key figure in Frankfurt’s attacking setup.

During the first half of last season, Ekitike formed a strong partnership with Omar Marmoush, who was later sold to Manchester City for £63 million. After Marmoush’s departure, Frankfurt adjusted their tactical system, with Ekitike playing up front in a formation with two attacking midfielders behind him.

What’s Next for Ekitike?

Liverpool’s pursuit of Hugo Ekitike looks set to conclude with a major signing that could reshape their attack for the coming season. With a deal in the works, and Frankfurt reportedly ready to let the forward leave for a record fee, all eyes will be on the final stages of the transfer talks.

If the transfer goes through, Ekitike will provide Liverpool with a dynamic and versatile striker capable of leading their attack, offering both goals and creativity. His ability to press, his tactical intelligence, and his keen eye for goal make him an exciting prospect for Klopp’s squad, and his addition could prove to be the missing piece in their offensive puzzle. As Liverpool close in on the deal, the future of the French forward looks promising, and if his form continues, he could quickly establish himself as a key figure in one of Europe’s top teams.

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