Agent claims player “agreed” to join another club before “Liverpool called him” and hijacked move
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Liverpool have secured the signing of Eintracht Frankfurt striker Hugo Ekitike in a deal reportedly worth around €95 million, including add-ons. The 23-year-old French forward, who scored 22 goals and provided 12 assists last season in Germany, will sign a six-year contract with Liverpool, marking a significant investment as the club seeks to bolster their attacking options.
The transfer concluded after Liverpool hijacked Newcastle United's pursuit of Ekitike. According to Ekitike's agent Ali Barat, Newcastle had reportedly agreed terms with Frankfurt and the player, but Liverpool intervened late in the negotiations, persuading Ekitike to choose Anfield instead of St James’ Park. Liverpool’s swift move came as a response to their failure to secure Alexander Isak, who subsequently also joined Liverpool[1].
Newcastle had shown longstanding interest in Ekitike, having tried to sign him previously, but the reported £85 million asking price and recent expenditure on other transfers such as Anthony Elanga made the deal challenging for them. Liverpool’s determination and financial muscle ultimately made the difference, with the Reds outbidding competitors including Newcastle, Chelsea, and Manchester United[2][3][4].
This signing fits into Liverpool’s broader transfer strategy this summer, which also included acquiring Florian Wirtz for a record fee, enhancing their attacking options. Ekitike is expected to replace Darwin Núñez, who scored only seven goals last season and has been linked with a move away. The club hopes Ekitike will quickly establish himself as a key figure and help secure major trophies over the coming years[4].
Liverpool’s approach and spending have drawn attention across Europe, with some like Bayern Munich’s honorary president Uli Hoeneß commenting on the escalating transfer costs and Liverpool’s recruitment drive, illustrating the intense competition for elite talent this transfer window[1].
PP