Liverpool have initiated contact with Eintracht Frankfurt regarding a potential transfer for 23-year-old French striker Hugo Ekitike amid their struggles to acquire Newcastle United’s preferred forward target, Alexander Isak. Liverpool's ideal reinforcement to their attacking line has been Isak, but Newcastle remains steadfast in refusing to sell the 25-year-old despite Liverpool’s willingness to break the British transfer record once more.

This impasse has prompted Liverpool to explore Ekitike as an alternative option. Newcastle, meanwhile, are also interested in signing Ekitike and have already made an initial offer of around €80 million, which Frankfurt rejected, holding out for the striker's €100 million release clause. Liverpool have since entered talks, but Newcastle’s discussions are reportedly more advanced, including agreements on personal terms for the player.

Newcastle view Ekitike as a complement to Isak, not a replacement, and are ready to break their transfer record to secure his signing ahead of Liverpool. Ekitike joined Frankfurt from Paris Saint-Germain initially on loan before making the move permanent, tallying 26 goals and 14 assists in 63 appearances. Frankfurt is resistant to selling below their valuation.

Liverpool’s pursuit of Ekitike comes after their effort to sign Isak stalled, with a willingness to offer around £120 million for the Swede reportedly rebuffed by Newcastle. The club's pressing need for a quality forward stems partly from emotional and tactical necessity following Diogo Jota’s departure, given his status as both a fan favourite and pivotal contributor during big matches. Manager Arne Slot seeks to reinforce Liverpool's squad ahead of their title defence and upcoming Champions League campaign.

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Fans hope that if Liverpool choose Ekitike, he will be afforded time to adapt and not viewed as merely a second-choice alternative. Meanwhile, Liverpool have been active in the transfer market this summer, already signing several players in addition to their striker recruitment ambitions.