Liverpool FC is actively pursuing the signing of French striker Hugo Ekitike from Eintracht Frankfurt, with reports confirming the club has submitted an official bid of around £69 million for the 23-year-old forward.

Following the rejection of a £70 million bid by Newcastle United, who had also been in strong contention for Ekitike, Liverpool has gained a clear advantage in the transfer race. Newcastle has since ceased their pursuit of the player, allowing Liverpool to progress their negotiations without competition from the Magpies.

According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Liverpool’s initial offer was declined by Eintracht Frankfurt, which has asked for a higher fee. Despite this, talks remain ongoing, and Ekitike himself is understood to have accepted Liverpool's personal terms and expressed a strong desire to join the Premier League champions.

This move comes after Liverpool’s attempts to sign Newcastle’s Alexander Isak were rebuffed, with the latter deemed unavailable and valued at no less than £150 million. Consequently, Ekitike has emerged as a preferred target as the Reds look to strengthen their forwards, especially amid uncertainties surrounding Darwin Núñez’s future at Anfield.

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Analysts view Ekitike as a promising, cost-effective alternative to Isak, sharing similar playing attributes and offering the potential to develop into a top striker in the Premier League following a successful season in Germany.

The club's transfer strategy reflects a desire to bolster attacking options without jeopardizing their financial stability, especially after recent high-profile deals like the acquisition of Florian Wirtz.

In summary, Liverpool’s proactive pursuit and official bid for Hugo Ekitike mark a significant step in their striker recruitment this summer, with negotiations ongoing and the player inclined towards a move to Anfield.


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