Liverpool are stepping up efforts to sign Eintracht Frankfurt striker Hugo Ekitike, with Fabrizio Romano reporting that club-to-club talks are advancing as of today.
The Reds had made Alexander Isak their top summer target, but Newcastle remain firm in their stance that the Sweden star is not for sale—despite Liverpool being ready to break their own transfer record with a £120 million bid.
With the Magpies holding out for more than £150m, Liverpool are now turning to Ekitike, who lit up the Bundesliga last season with 22 goals and 12 assists. The 22-year-old Frenchman has a release clause of around £86m, and while Frankfurt are reluctant to sell, they may have little choice if that fee is met.
Romano confirmed:
“Liverpool are progressing on both club and player side for Ekitike. Isak deal depends on Newcastle’s final decision, but talks with Eintracht are now active.”
Liverpool are also weighing up other options, including:
- Ollie Watkins (Aston Villa)
- Yoane Wissa (Brentford)
- Victor Osimhen (Napoli – £63m release clause)
- Rodrygo (Real Madrid – versatile across the front line)
Meanwhile, Darwin Núñez could still be sold, but interest has mainly come from Saudi clubs so far.
Ekitike appears to be the front-runner as things stand, with Liverpool eager to wrap up a deal quickly and give Arne Slot a Champions League-ready frontline for 2025/26.
