Below is a summary of the full article. Click here for the full version or go back to LFC Live.net

Hugo Ekitike will reportedly miss the U21 Euros amid Liverpool links.(Image: Photo by Alex Grimm/Getty Images)

Liverpool-linked striker Hugo Ekitike will not feature in the under-21s European Championships amid the reported ongoing transfer battle between Chelsea and the Reds for the player's signature.

The French Football Federation confirmed that he arrived at the camp with back pain and following treatment, he will miss the beginning of the tournament.

"Having arrived at the training camp in Clairefontaine with back pain, which he had contracted at the end of his season with his club, Hugo Ekitike was forced to withdraw from the Euro Espoirs," a statement from the federation read.



READ MORE:Florian Wirtz transfer latest as Liverpool next move clear after record offer rejectedREAD MORE:Darwin Nunez transfer intrigue deepens as Liverpool wait on new offer

"Despite the care provided by the medical staff, the progression of his back pain will prevent him from being fit for the start of the competition."

German outlet BILD has reported the severity of the injury is unknown but he has continued his training in Marbella.

The report adds there have been personal talks on the player's side held with both Liverpool and Chelsea, which Eintracht Frankfurt are aware of.

Article continues below

It has been said that the Londoners are in pole position to land the striker, however a bid hasn't been tabled to the Bundesliga side, who qualified for next season's Champions League.

Although a verbal agreement is considered likely, as per the outlet, but the club are demanding a €100million (£80m) fee.

Chelsea have an opportunity to land Ekitike during the first stage of the transfer window, which opened on Sunday, ahead of its closure on June 10 - four days before the beginning of the Club World Cup.

Reports suggest that the Londoners are closing in on the signing of Liam Delap from Ipswich Town.

The Stamford Bridge club look set to win the race for the relegated star after an impressive debut campaign saw him attract interest from across the Premier League.

Meanwhile, Liverpool have already completed a deal since the window opened after signing Jeremie Frimpong from Bayer Leverkusen.

Article continues below

Talks are ongoing to sign his teammate Florian Wirtz with the Reds looking to break their transfer record, but are currently in dialogue with Die Werkself.

But Arne Slot's side are determined to reach an agreement with both clubs hopeful a swift resolution can be reached.

Sign up to one of the Liverpool Echo's free daily and weekly newsletters on Liverpool FC by clicking here.


For more news relating to Chelsea, visit our sister site Chelsea Latest Live.