Liverpool nearing £70m-plus deal for Eintracht Frankfurt’s Hugo Ekitike

Liverpool are close to finalising the signing of French striker Hugo Ekitike from Eintracht Frankfurt in a deal valued at over £70 million. 

The Premier League champions are aiming to complete the move by the weekend, with sources confirming that talks are at an advanced stage.

Ekitike, who is open to a move to Anfield, is being lined up to fill the central striker role for the Reds. Newcastle United had previously tabled a £70 million bid for the 23-year-old, which was rejected by Frankfurt. 

Liverpool’s offer is expected to exceed that amount, strengthening their hand in the race for the prolific forward.

The Magpies, having accepted defeat in the chase, are now turning their attention to Brentford’s Yoane Wissa as a replacement target.

Ekitike enjoyed an impressive 2024–25 season in Germany, scoring 15 goals and providing eight assists in 31 Bundesliga starts, helping Frankfurt secure a third-place finish. 

Liverpool have been busy in the transfer market this summer, already completing a potential British record £116 million deal for midfielder Florian Wirtz.

They also strengthened their defence with the signings of full-backs Milos Kerkez and Jeremie Frimpong for £40 million and £30 million respectively.

Despite showing interest in Newcastle’s Alexander Isak, the Magpies have insisted the Swedish striker is not for sale at any price.

Ekitike’s rise has been remarkable. After an underwhelming stint at Paris Saint-Germain, where he struggled for game time, he was loaned to Frankfurt in early 2024. 

The German club later made the move permanent, and under manager Dino Toppmoller, Ekitike thrived as both a lone striker and in tandem with Omar Marmoush. 

His role became more central in the latter half of the season after Marmoush’s transfer to Manchester City for £63 million.

Ekitike is a versatile and intelligent forward, capable of adapting to different tactical systems. Though not the most explosive attacker, he uses clever movement to outsmart defenders and has a strong understanding of pressing responsibilities.