Liverpool close in on Ekitike deal after agreeing personal terms with striker | OneFootball

Liverpool have reached a full agreement on personal terms with Hugo Ekitike, moving a step closer to signing him ahead of Newcastle United.

According to journalists Santi Aouna and Fabrizio Romano, Ekitike has given the green light to a move to Anfield and is keen on joining the Premier League champions.

His camp has agreed terms with Liverpool, and contract details are reportedly finalised.

Liverpool have also made an initial bid to Eintracht Frankfurt, which has been rejected. Talks between the clubs remain ongoing, and a deal is within reach.

Newcastle have long tracked Ekitike and reportedly tabled an offer of around €75m earlier this summer. However, that bid was rebuffed by Frankfurt.

The 23-year-old had a standout season in Germany, scoring 22 goals and registering 12 assists in 48 matches across all competitions.

His 15 league goals helped Frankfurt secure a third-place finish in the Bundesliga and Champions League qualification for just the second time in the club’s history.

Ekitike joined Frankfurt permanently in 2024 after impressing on loan from Paris Saint-Germain. His performances quickly made him one of the most sought-after young forwards in Europe.

Liverpool’s interest in the striker comes as they look to refresh their attack under Arne Slot. Darwin Nunez is available for transfer, while Luis Diaz has expressed his desire to leave the club.

The club had also explored a move for Alexander Isak, but Newcastle insist he is not for sale.

Liverpool are focused on signing a top-level number nine, and Ekitike is viewed as a player with significant potential.

Although not as established as Isak, the Frenchman offers raw talent, physicality and mobility – qualities that could make him a central figure in Slot’s new-look frontline.

He is regarded as a strong fit for Liverpool’s system, offering a tall, agile and technically sound presence up front.

His ability to operate in tight spaces, threaten in transition and link up with creative talents like Mohamed Salah and Florian Wirtz adds to his appeal.

Manchester United and Chelsea had also shown interest in Ekitike earlier this summer, but both clubs have since moved on to other targets.

With personal terms agreed, Liverpool must now focus on striking a final deal with Frankfurt to secure one of Europe’s most exciting young forwards.