Fabrizio Romano Confirms Liverpool are ‘Still Talking’ to £85m Forward | OneFootball

Liverpool Weigh Up Hugo Ekitike Pursuit Amid Growing Premier League Interest

Liverpool’s forward planning is well underway, and the name Hugo Ekitike is firmly on the shortlist. As reported by Fabrizio Romano for Give Me Sport, the French forward is actively speaking to Liverpool, Manchester United and Chelsea, with all three clubs hoping to secure his signature ahead of the 2025/26 season.

“He’s considering all options and still talking to all these clubs [Man United, Liverpool and Chelsea]. No decision has been made yet,” Romano confirmed.

This aligns with reports from Germany that suggest Eintracht Frankfurt are expecting upwards of £85 million for the 22-year-old, whose breakout season in the Bundesliga has made him one of the most in-demand young forwards in Europe.

Photo: IMAGO

Why Ekitike Fits Slot’s Vision

Under Arne Slot, Liverpool’s attacking blueprint has evolved. The Dutchman’s high-tempo, fluid style needs mobile, intelligent forwards who can play across the line and contribute creatively. Ekitike’s numbers scream suitability. With 22 goals and 12 assists in 48 matches last season, the Frenchman has shown that he is more than a finisher.

FBref statistics highlight his all-round game: he ranks in the top 10% of strikers across Europe’s top five leagues for non-penalty expected goals (0.6), assists (0.29), and shot-creating actions (3.5) per 90 minutes. Add in his progressive carries (3.04) and successful take-ons (1.9), and it is clear that Ekitike offers the type of modern centre-forward play Liverpool increasingly prioritise.

Should Darwin Nunez depart, as rumoured, Slot would need a striker capable of stepping straight into a title-challenging XI. Ekitike’s blend of youth, mobility and top-tier production makes him a natural successor.

Financial Strategy Will Define Liverpool’s Summer

Whether Liverpool can meet Frankfurt’s asking price remains to be seen. Much could hinge on recouping funds from Nunez’s potential sale, which might clear the financial path to bid confidently. Having already spent big on Florian Wirtz, FSG’s willingness to sanction a second marquee transfer will be tested.

Romano warned in a subsequent update via CaughtOffside that “a deal will not be easy to pull off” and will “clearly be expensive” for any club that succeeds. For Liverpool, that means maximising value in other areas of the squad and ensuring any outgoings contribute meaningfully to their transfer budget.

Photo: IMAGO

Premier League Race Could Define Liverpool’s Intentions

Manchester United’s reported ‘concrete interest’, along with Chelsea’s long-standing desire for attacking reinforcements, puts added pressure on Liverpool to act decisively. Arne Slot has just guided the Reds to the Premier League title in his debut season, and showing ambition in the market would signal continued intent.

If Liverpool are serious about refreshing their forward line, Hugo Ekitike may represent the ideal candidate. However, waiting too long could allow rivals to gain the upper hand.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

There’s no denying the excitement around Hugo Ekitike. His numbers speak volumes and, stylistically, he looks like a perfect fit for Slot’s system. While his fee is eye-watering, it reflects modern market dynamics more than anything else. If Liverpool can shift Nunez and reinvest smartly, this feels like a deal worth pushing hard for.

Ekitike’s movement, creativity and pressing ability would make him an instant fan favourite. He’s the type of player who could explode at Anfield, and missing out on him—especially to Manchester United—would sting. From a fan’s point of view, we’d rather see Liverpool stretch their budget now than watch another potential star thrive elsewhere.

Slot has earned trust with silverware, but to keep the club competing, FSG must back his plans fully. Ekitike’s arrival would not just be a statement—it would be a smart evolution of Liverpool’s frontline.