Manager Claims ‘Bitter Loss’ as Liverpool Close In On Superstar Striker | OneFootball

Liverpool push forward in Ekitike pursuit

Liverpool have submitted a formal offer to sign Eintracht Frankfurt forward Hugo Ekitike, understood to be worth €80m (£69m) with a package potentially rising to €90m (£78m) through add-ons. Negotiations between the two clubs are ongoing, and while Frankfurt have not yet issued a formal response, sources indicate the talks have been productive.

The proposed structure of the deal is still under discussion, particularly the nature and timing of the performance-based incentives included in the offer. Liverpool’s interest in the 23-year-old has intensified following internal discussions over the need for a dynamic forward to complement their attacking unit.

Discussions between Liverpool and Frankfurt are now entering a critical phase, with the Premier League side hopeful of reaching an agreement in the coming days. Ekitike, who is open to a move to England, has reportedly prioritised a switch to Anfield over other options, despite previous interest from other Premier League clubs, including a rejected approach by Newcastle United earlier in the week.

Premier League the preferred destination

Ekitike’s desire to join Liverpool could prove decisive in negotiations. While Newcastle remain admirers of the forward, their latest bid was turned down, and it is understood that the player’s camp is more aligned with Liverpool’s long-term vision and squad environment.

The striker was an unused substitute during Frankfurt’s recent friendly against FSV Frankfurt, further fuelling speculation over his future. After the match, Frankfurt head coach acknowledged Ekitike’s potential exit, labelling it “a bitter loss” for the squad.

Sources close to the club suggest that while Frankfurt are reluctant to lose one of their star performers, the offer on the table represents a significant financial proposition and reflects Ekitike’s value in the current market.

Ekitike’s rise from Ligue 1 to Champions League contributor

Ekitike’s career trajectory has been shaped by a rapid rise since his formative years at Stade Reims. Initially seen as a raw prospect, he was challenged to emulate the output of elite-level forwards and responded by exceeding expectations. Reims’ then-head coach Oscar Garcia described him as a player with unshakable ambition—someone who believed he belonged among Europe’s top-tier strikers.

That mindset was tested during a loan spell in Denmark, where he gained valuable minutes at Vejle Boldklub. Upon returning to France, he quickly progressed from a fourth-choice option to a central figure at Reims before securing a move to Frankfurt.

Last season, he found the net 22 times in 48 appearances across all competitions and played a pivotal role in helping Frankfurt qualify for the Champions League.

Liverpool’s attacking options under review

Liverpool’s move for Ekitike comes amid wider assessments of their attacking options. While the club remains well-stocked in forward areas, there is recognition that long-term planning is required. The approach for the Frankfurt striker underlines a strategy focused on younger talent with European pedigree and scope for further development.

It is also notable that Ekitike’s profile differs from targets linked in recent windows, such as Newcastle’s Alexander Isak. While Isak has Premier League experience, Ekitike offers a different stylistic profile—more direct, explosive, and able to operate across the frontline.

With key pre-season fixtures approaching and the transfer window gathering pace, Liverpool will be keen to secure clarity on Ekitike’s future swiftly.