Liverpool are stepping up their interest in striker targets as they look to secure one soon.

The Reds have not exactly hidden their desires to bring in a new number nine this summer, as they feel this is one of the last signings they need to complete Arne Slot’s puzzle.

They have been linked with a plethora of names and no one is too sure who they will end up getting, although everyone knows that Alexander Isak is their ‘dream’ target.

Liverpool are said to be preparing an offer for the Swede which is expected to be in the region of £120m, but Newcastle’s stance remains that they do not want to sell.

Ornstein drops big news on Liverpool’s striker hunt after Isak approach	David Ornstein provides latest update on Liverpool striker situation	Fabrizio Romano says Liverpool have now made their first move for Alexander Isak

That being said, their chances of signing the 25-year-old may now be in doubt as, according to reports, the Reds have made contact with another striker instead.

Photo by Vince Mignott/DeFodi Images/DeFodi via Getty Images

When the news broke that the Reds wanted to sign Isak and felt like a move was worth making, it was clear that if they failed to sign the Swede, they would opt for Eintracht Frankfurt’s Hugo Ekitike instead.

The Frenchman has been a long-standing target for Slot’s side and many clubs were interested in his signature, although Newcastle were the ones who made the first approach.

Now, according to David Ornstein at The Athletic, Liverpool have reached out to Frankfurt about signing Ekitike, ensuring that they have registered their interest.

MORE LIVERPOOL STORIES

READ MORE: What Liverpool are planning to do with Darwin Nunez after readying Alexander Isak bid

Newcastle had a bid rejected on Tuesday for the 23-year-old that was worth around £65m, indicating that the Reds would have to pay more to secure his services.

Liverpool are in a very strong position compared to the Magpies as they have made it clear that Isak is their top priority and failure to land him will mean they go for Ekitike instead, leaving Newcastle with a big decision to make.

Although Isak is, of course, the best of the bunch, Ekitike should not be overlooked as the Frenchman is also a seriously impressive player.

He netted 22 goals and registered 12 assists last season in all competitions, this coming in his first season in Germany since departing PSG in the summer of 2024.

The Frenchman helped guide Frankfurt to a third-place finish and bring them Champions League football for just the second time in their history, showing the impact he has had.

He is versatile and can both score and assist, making him an excellent option for Slot if he does have him in his team next season.
For more news relating to Newcastle United, visit our sister site NUFC Latest Live.