Liverpool initiate contact with Eintracht Frankfurt over deal for Hugo Ekitike | OneFootball

Liverpool have reached out to Eintracht Frankfurt regarding a possible transfer for French forward Hugo Ekitike, according to The Athletic.

The 23-year-old is one of Europe’s in-demand forwards at the moment after an impressive 2024/25 campaign with Frankfurt, where he bagged 22 goals and 12 assists in 48 matches.

Liverpool’s interest in Ekitike has gained momentum amid the club’s pursuit of Alexander Isak as Newcastle United remain adamant their star striker is not for sale.

This situation has prompted Liverpool to explore alternative targets, with Ekitike emerging as a prime candidate.

Frankfurt are demanding €100 million to part ways with Ekitike, given the striker has a contract until 2030 and is viewed as a long-term asset, so any deal will require a significant financial package.

They have already rejected a €75m bid from Newcastle and have previously demonstrated their ability to hold out until their demands are met.

Newcastle’s interest in Ekitike is reportedly not linked to Isak’s future at St James’ Park, as they would ideally like to have both players on their books next season.

Ekitike is open to a move to Newcastle, but Liverpool’s concrete interest could now throw a spanner in the works.

While no official bid has been submitted yet, discussions between Liverpool and Frankfurt are expected to accelerate in the coming days.

The Premier League champions have been aggressive in the transfer market and are eyeing a new centre-forward with Darwin Nunez still expected to leave despite Napoli recently ending their interest in him.