Liverpool Push for Ekitike as Newcastle Withdraw from Deal

Liverpool FC is moving closer to securing a transfer for French striker Hugo Ekitike from Eintracht Frankfurt, following Newcastle United’s withdrawal from negotiations. Reports indicate that Newcastle’s last bid for Ekitike was rejected, leading the club to shift its focus to different targets.

Throughout the previous season, Liverpool has been interested in Newcastle’s Alexander Isak, aiming to bolster their attacking options. With Darwin Núñez struggling for form under manager Arne Slot, the need for a potent forward has become critical. Liverpool’s management has already reinforced the squad with the signings of Florian Wirtz, Jeremie Frimpong, and Milos Kerkez.

Despite the continuous speculation surrounding Isak, Newcastle has firmly stated they are not willing to sell him after their successful qualification for the Champions League. Their steadfast position has prompted Liverpool to redirect their efforts towards Ekitike, who had an impressive season in the Bundesliga, contributing 15 goals and eight assists in 33 appearances.

Details on the Transfer Negotiations

Renowned transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano reported on social media platform X that discussions regarding Ekitike’s potential move to Newcastle were not confirmed as positive. He noted that Newcastle’s last proposal was turned down by Eintracht Frankfurt, and no further offers had been made since then. This development has allowed Liverpool to gain momentum in the race for the striker.

Romano later provided an update indicating that Liverpool’s club officials are advancing discussions with Eintracht for Ekitike. He stated, “Understand Liverpool are advancing today in club to club talks with Eintracht for Hugo Ekitike.” Meanwhile, the situation for Isak remains tenuous, hinging on Newcastle’s decision to maintain their not-for-sale stance.

Adding to the narrative, Sky Germany reporter Florian Plettenberg confirmed that Ekitike has expressed a preference for a move to Liverpool. He reported that Liverpool is willing to offer more than Newcastle for the 21-year-old forward. Plettenberg stated, “Liverpool have verbally indicated to Eintracht that they are ready to bid for Hugo Ekitike and have made it clear to Frankfurt that they are prepared to pay more than Newcastle.”

As the negotiations unfold, it was noted that no formal offer had been submitted by Liverpool as of the latest updates, but conversations were reportedly ongoing. The failure of Newcastle to advance in their negotiations with Eintracht has left the door open for Liverpool to secure Ekitike’s signature.

Newcastle’s Shift in Focus

In a recent development, Romano reported that Newcastle has officially exited the talks for Ekitike, deeming the deal “considered off.” He added that the club is now prioritizing alternative targets following the rejection of their bid. “#NUFC now focus on different targets as since Monday bid got rejected,” he stated, highlighting the shift in Newcastle’s strategy.

Liverpool’s pursuit of Ekitike underscores their intent to enhance their attacking lineup as they prepare for the new season. If completed, this transfer could significantly impact Liverpool’s offensive capabilities, especially given Ekitike’s proven track record in Germany.

As the transfer window continues, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how these negotiations develop and whether Liverpool can finalize the deal for Ekitike, potentially reshaping their frontline for the upcoming campaign.