Liverpool Set to Sign Ekitike for Over £70m
Liverpool are in advanced negotiations to secure the signing of Eintracht Frankfurt's prolific striker Hugo Ekitike in a deal exceeding £70 million, according to multiple sources.
The Reds aim to finalize the transfer before the weekend, with their offer set to surpass Newcastle United's rejected £70m bid for the French forward.
Why Ekitike Fits Liverpool's Needs
The 23-year-old striker enjoyed a breakout 2024-25 Bundesliga campaign, netting 15 goals in 31 starts while helping Frankfurt secure third place. His creative output was equally impressive:
- Ranked in the top 6% of Bundesliga forwards for assists (8)
- Led the league with 117 shots on goal
- Recorded the second-highest expected goals (xG) at 21.6
Transfer Market Context
Liverpool's pursuit comes after:
- Newcastle's failed attempt to sign Ekitike
- Interest in Alexander Isak (deemed unavailable by Newcastle)
- Major summer signings including Florian Wirtz (£116m) and defensive reinforcements
Meanwhile, Newcastle have reportedly shifted focus to Brentford's Yoane Wissa after their Ekitike pursuit stalled.
Scouting Report: Hugo Ekitike
The French striker represents another astute Frankfurt recruitment success:
Career Trajectory
- Rose to prominence at Reims before PSG move
- Found consistent playing time at Frankfurt (permanent deal in 2024)
- Thrived in multiple tactical systems under manager Dino Toppmoller
Playing Style
Ekitike offers tactical flexibility that makes him valuable to top clubs:
- Effective as lone striker or in partnerships (previously with Omar Marmoush)
- Positionally versatile - comfortable dropping deep or drifting wide
- Strong tactical understanding in pressing systems
- Technical ability to beat defenders with intelligent movement
His well-rounded skill set makes him particularly appealing to Liverpool's high-pressing, positionally fluid system under their current management.
