Premier League champions Liverpool are on the verge of completing a big-money move for Eintracht Frankfurt striker Hugo Ekitike, after agreeing a £78 million (€90m) fixed fee, with total costs potentially rising to £82 million (€95m) including add-ons.
Negotiations between the two clubs continued on Sunday, focusing on the structure and performance-related bonuses, but both parties are confident of reaching a full agreement and finalize the deal soon.
Liverpool Turn to Ekitike After Isak Rebuff
Liverpool turned their attention to Ekitike after being informed that Newcastle United striker Alexander Isak was not for sale. Ekitike, 23, is said to be keen on a move to the Premier League, with Liverpool his preferred destination despite interest from other clubs, including Newcastle, whose bid was earlier rejected.
The French forward was an unused substitute in Frankfurt’s pre-season match against FSV Frankfurt on Saturday. Speaking after the game, Frankfurt manager Dino Toppmöller admitted the player’s potential departure would be “a bitter loss” for the Bundesliga side.
Breakthrough Season Puts Ekitike on the Map
Ekitike’s standout performances in the 2024/25 season, where he scored 22 goals in 48 appearances, played a key role in helping Frankfurt secure UEFA Champions League qualification. His blend of pace, technical skill, and confidence has attracted admiration from scouts and fans alike.
But Ekitike’s rise hasn’t been without challenges. Once seen as a fourth-choice striker at Stade Reims, he was loaned out to Vejle Boldklub in Denmark before returning to France to fight for his place. Under then-manager Oscar Garcia, a special development plan was crafted, comparing his progress to players at higher levels.
“We challenged him to reach the level of other top strikers – not Mbappé at first – but he quickly made that his goal,” Garcia told reporters.
While some coaches viewed Ekitike as arrogant, Garcia sees it as part of a driven mentality.
“He always wanted to be compared to the best. Maybe it rubbed people the wrong way, but that mindset is part of what makes him special,” he added.
What Ekitike Brings to Anfield
Ekitike would become Liverpool’s fourth summer signing under new head coach Arne Slot, adding depth and dynamism to an attack that is evolving post-Klopp. His versatility allows him to play as a central striker or wide forward, and his fearless approach could make him a key figure in Liverpool’s next chapter.
The Reds are expected to finalise the deal in the coming days, pending medicals and paperwork. If completed, the transfer will mark another significant statement of intent from Liverpool in this summer’s transfer market.