Liverpool bid for Hugo Ekitiké as Newcastle drop out

Liverpool’s official move for Ekitiké

Liverpool are finally in the mix for Hugo Ekitiké, a player they've monitored for months. The Reds have submitted their first official offer for Eintracht Frankfurt’s 23-year-old French forward, signalling their clear intent in the transfer. One of the key elements in this deal is that Liverpool have already agreed on personal terms with Ekitiké for a six-year contract. Fabrizio Romano has confirmed the agreement on personal terms.

Ekitiké joined Eintracht Frankfurt on loan from PSG in January 2024 and quickly impressed. The German club activated the €16.5 million buy option in his contract without hesitation. After Omar Marmoush moved to Manchester City, Ekitiké emerged as Frankfurt’s focal point in attack. He finished the season with 22 goals and 11 assists, 15 of which came in the Bundesliga.

Hugo Ekitiké is a modern and versatile forward. While his primary role is as a centre-forward, he is also effective on the left wing or as a second striker. Despite standing at 1.90m, he is agile, balanced, and quick on the ball. He favours his right foot but is comfortable using either, and remains a significant aerial threat. His most notable trait at Frankfurt was his ability to link up with teammates, hold up play, and contribute to the team’s structure. To thrive in the Premier League, he will need to improve his stamina and consistently offer more defensively when out of possession.

Ekitiké’s openness to joining Liverpool has also accelerated the process. The Guardian reported that Anfield was the player’s top priority, a desire he has made clear to all interested parties. His determination, along with Liverpool’s, has further strengthened the club’s hand.

Newcastle rejected after £70m bid

Another major development in the transfer saga is Newcastle United’s decision to withdraw. According to The Athletic, Newcastle recently submitted a bid of around £70 million for Ekitiké, but Frankfurt deemed the offer insufficient and rejected it outright. As a result, Newcastle concluded that no further progress could be made and decided to pull out.

This marks not only a missed signing but also a turning point in Newcastle’s transfer strategy. Ekitiké had long been on their radar and was seen as a potential partner to Alexander Isak. After two failed attempts to sign him in 2022, the French forward has once again eluded the Premier League club’s grasp.

Frankfurt firm on €100m valuation

Eintracht Frankfurt have maintained a firm stance from the start. The Guardian reported that the club have a €100 million (approximately £86.7 million) release clause in the player’s contract and are unwilling to consider any bids below that figure. Liverpool’s initial offer fell short of this valuation and was rejected without further negotiation.

This has complicated efforts to close the deal quickly. However, Liverpool’s persistence, combined with the player’s desire to join, could yet reshape the dynamics. Whether the next offer will be enough to sway Frankfurt’s board remains uncertain for now.

Isak off the table, focus shifts to Ekitiké

Liverpool’s original top target this summer was Newcastle United’s Swedish striker Alexander Isak. But upon realising that even a massive offer would be dismissed, the club turned their attention to Ekitiké. Fabrizio Romano reported that the shift was driven by Newcastle’s unwillingness to sell Isak under any circumstances.

Newcastle’s stance underlines just how vital Isak is to their plans. Now that Ekitiké is off the table, Isak stands as Newcastle’s only elite forward, cementing his untouchable status.

Newcastle turn to Yoane Wissa, ripple effects for United

Following their exit from the Ekitiké race, Newcastle have now set their sights on Brentford forward Yoane Wissa. According to The Athletic, the club are now fully focused on securing his transfer. But the implications extend beyond Newcastle.

Should Wissa leave Brentford, it could affect the future of another of the club’s stars, Bryan Mbeumo. Manchester United have had Mbeumo on their radar for a long time. If Brentford lose Wissa, they may be reluctant to part with Mbeumo in the same window.

All eyes on second bid: Will Liverpool make their move?

Attention now turns to Liverpool’s next step. The rejection of their initial offer hasn’t ended proceedings, as the agreement on personal terms and the player’s eagerness suggest that the deal is still alive.

Liverpool’s willingness to meet Frankfurt’s €100 million valuation could ultimately decide the outcome. Reports suggest the club are preparing a second bid, while Frankfurt remain unmoved in their stance.

The Ekitiké saga is fast becoming one of the most layered and drawn-out deals of the summer. The player’s ambition, club strategy, and Frankfurt’s stubborn stance are all shaping what has become one of the most intricate deals of the summer window.