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Liverpool Opens Talks with Eintracht Frankfurt Over Hugo Ekitike After Newcastle's £70m Bid Rejected

Liverpool have officially entered discussions with Eintracht Frankfurt to sign French striker Hugo Ekitike, following a recent rejection of a £70 million bid from Newcastle United. This move comes amid Liverpool's ongoing pursuit of striker options after being informed that Newcastle's Alexander Isak is not for sale this transfer window.

Newcastle, having firmly stated they have no intention of selling Isak and valuing him at at least £150 million, have effectively pushed Liverpool to consider alternative targets. Ekitike, who scored 22 goals in the 2024/25 season across Bundesliga, Europa League, and DFB-Pokal, is considered a highly promising option and a more realistic signing target for Liverpool as they seek to reinforce their attacking line-up.

The 22-year-old Frenchman has garnered attention from multiple top clubs including Chelsea and Manchester United, but Liverpool appear poised to leverage their appeal to convince him to join Anfield. Despite his young age, Ekitike stands out as one of Europe's best under-23 strikers, having delivered a strong scoring record and demonstrating readiness to step up to a top-tier club.

Reports indicate Liverpool have not made an offer for Alexander Isak and no formal contact with Newcastle regarding Isak has taken place, although the Premier League club remains a target according to earlier speculations. Additionally, Liverpool may have signaled intentions to prioritize the acquisition of Ekitike if Newcastle persists in refusing to sell Isak, potentially intensifying the competitive transfer battle.

Eintracht Frankfurt's player profile for Ekitike highlights some past questions about his character and attitude, with coaches perceiving him as somewhat arrogant and ambitious, always wanting to be compared to the best. Nevertheless, his progress and goal output suggest a strong potential fit for Liverpool's ambitions moving forward.

This emerging transfer saga represents Liverpool's strategic pivot in the striker market after evaluating their options and responding to Newcastle's firm stance in retaining Isak.


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