Liverpool is ahead in the race to sign French striker Hugo Ekitike, 23, from Eintracht Frankfurt in a deal that could exceed £522 million (70 million pounds) for the 2025/26 season. The move follows the English club, reigning Premier League champions, competing with Newcastle for the player. Reports indicate Newcastle’s initial offer was rejected by the German club, which demands a higher fee for the young talent. The transfer, potentially finalized by the weekend, reflects Liverpool’s ambition to bolster their squad with high-profile names, while Newcastle seeks alternatives to strengthen their attack. The transfer window remains active, with Ekitike at the center of attention.
Interest in the French striker is not new. Ekitike, who shone in the last Bundesliga season with 22 goals and 11 assists in 47 matches, has become one of Europe’s most sought-after players. His ability to combine speed, finishing, and versatility in attack makes him a strategic asset for clubs seeking a modern center-forward. However, the negotiation faces hurdles, as Eintracht Frankfurt, known for high-value sales like Randal Kolo Muani and Omar Marmoush, demands around 100 million euros (£600 million) to release the player.
- Ekitike’s standout stats from last season:
- 117 shots on goal, leading the Bundesliga.
- 21.6 expected goals (xG), second-highest in the league.
- 11 assists, showcasing his playmaking ability.
- Direct involvement in 33 goals across 47 games.
The transfer market is buzzing, and the battle for Ekitike symbolizes the pursuit of talents who can transform squads. While Liverpool plans a more dynamic attack under Arne Slot, Newcastle adjusts its strategy after securing Alexander Isak, another Liverpool target.
🚨 | After being rejected by Hugo Ekitike, Newcastle have set a new record for most player REJECTIONS in a single transfer window, 25 players have turned them down so far. ❌
— Just Bizarre Tactics (@JBTFooty) July 17, 2025
(via @SkySportPL) pic.twitter.com/SSo9qoZ52u
Hugo Ekitike’s rise in European football
Hugo Ekitike first gained attention at Reims, where he emerged as a promising talent. In 2022, he joined Paris Saint-Germain but struggled to secure a regular spot. His move to Eintracht Frankfurt, initially on loan in 2024, marked a turning point. The German club paid 16.5 million euros to make the transfer permanent, and Ekitike responded with consistent performances. His ability to play as a center-forward or in wider attacking roles made him a key figure in Frankfurt’s campaign, which earned a Champions League spot.
Ekitike’s Bundesliga performances drew interest from European giants. Besides Liverpool and Newcastle, clubs like Manchester United and Arsenal also showed interest, but the Frenchman seems inclined to choose Anfield, where Arne Slot’s high-pressing, intense style suits his game. A potential six-year contract with Liverpool underscores the player’s confidence in the project.
Liverpool’s transfer window strategy
Under Arne Slot, Liverpool is investing heavily to maintain competitiveness after their Premier League title. Signings like Florian Wirtz, Jeremie Frimpong, and Milos Kerkez, costing around 186 million pounds (£1.3 billion), highlight the club’s ambition. The pursuit of Ekitike addresses Darwin Núñez’s inconsistency, as the Uruguayan faces criticism for poor finishing despite his potential.
The club’s strategy focuses on adding a mobile, clinical forward, qualities Ekitike brings. Liverpool’s initial offer, surpassing Newcastle’s rejected 70 million pounds, is in advanced talks, aiming to seal the deal before the pre-season tour in Asia.
Newcastle’s pivot after setback
While Liverpool advances, Newcastle shifts focus. After Frankfurt rejected their bid, the Magpies now target Brentford’s Yoane Wissa as an alternative to bolster their attack. Retaining Alexander Isak, also a Liverpool target, is seen as crucial for Newcastle, who secured a Champions League spot for 2025/26.
Newcastle viewed Ekitike as an ideal complement to Isak, forming a versatile attacking duo. However, the Frenchman’s preference for Liverpool and Frankfurt’s high demands forced a change in plans. The club’s market moves reflect the need to strengthen for multiple competitions.
Stats behind the hype
Hugo Ekitike’s 2024/25 season was marked by impressive numbers, justifying Frankfurt’s high valuation. Beyond leading the Bundesliga in shots on goal, he excelled in big matches, contributing to Frankfurt’s Europa League quarterfinal run. His ability to press defenders and create space for teammates makes him ideal for modern tactical systems.
Ekitike’s performance highlights:
- Averaged 2.5 shots per game in the Bundesliga.
- 90% pass accuracy in attacking areas.
- Scored 8 goals below his xG, suggesting room for improvement.
- 14 assists in 64 games for Frankfurt.
These stats highlight his potential but spark debates about his efficiency. Liverpool sees a chance to refine a raw talent, while others question the hefty investment.
Negotiations with Eintracht Frankfurt
Eintracht Frankfurt remains firm in talks. After selling players like Kolo Muani for 95 million euros and Marmoush for 75 million euros, the club demands top fees for its stars. Ekitike’s release clause, estimated at 86.5 million pounds (£645 million), is a challenge, but Liverpool is confident in negotiating a slightly lower figure.
The relationship between Liverpool and Frankfurt has been productive, with frequent talks in recent days. The German club, aware of interest from other giants, knows it can maximize profit, especially since PSG, Ekitike’s former club, will receive 20% of the transfer profit.
Fit for Slot’s system
Arne Slot, Liverpool’s manager, prioritizes players suited to an intense, high-pressing style with quick transitions. Ekitike’s mobility and versatility across attacking roles make him a perfect fit. His youth and experience in top competitions like the Bundesliga and Europa League position him as a strategic long-term investment.
Slot also seeks options to reduce reliance on Núñez, who lacks the desired consistency. Ekitike’s potential arrival, alongside a possible Núñez exit, could reshape Liverpool’s attacking unit.
Fierce market competition
The race for Ekitike extends beyond Liverpool and Newcastle. Manchester United, Arsenal, and Chelsea have shown interest, but Liverpool’s financial muscle and Anfield’s appeal give them an edge. The player’s preference for the Reds strengthens their position.
With the 2025 transfer window split into two phases, clubs face pressure to finalize deals before the season starts on August 15. Moves like Arsenal’s record-breaking signing in women’s football and Napoli’s pursuit of other targets underscore the market’s intensity.
Liverpool’s record spending
Ekitike’s potential signing would push Liverpool’s transfer spending beyond 250 million pounds (£1.86 billion). The arrivals of Wirtz, Frimpong, and Kerkez already rank the club among Europe’s biggest spenders, and adding Ekitike would cement this bold approach. Fans, buoyed by the Premier League title, hope these signings keep the team dominant.
Interest in Isak, thwarted by Newcastle’s stance, accelerated the Ekitike pursuit. The Frenchman, while expensive, is a more feasible target than Isak’s 120-150 million-pound valuation.
What lies ahead for 2025/26
The 2025/26 Premier League season promises fierce competition, with Liverpool and Newcastle strengthening for domestic and European challenges. Ekitike’s signing could be a game-changer for Liverpool, aiming to maintain their English dominance and advance in the Champions League. Newcastle, with Isak secured and Wissa in sight, aims to solidify its status among the elite.
The transfer window, open until September 4 for the Women’s Super League, continues to drive market activity. Ekitike, with his potential and strong stats, remains a focal point, and his decision will shape the trajectory of both clubs.
