Liverpool have switched their attention towards Hugo Ekitike and follows Newcastle United in chasing the French striker as a key target.
According to The Athletic, Liverpool have turned their attention towards Hugo Ekitike as an alternative to their primary target, Alexander Isak. The Reds have approached Eintracht Frankfurt to find out details for the signing of the striker, with Newcastle United still on the trail of the Frenchman.
Liverpool and Newcastle United have been involved in a transfer tussle regarding strikers. The Magpies made their move for Hugo Ekitike first, making a bid of around €75 million, which was turned down by Eintracht Frankfurt, but the chase is still open.
Liverpool then submitted an enquiry for Alexander Isak, which has not gone too well over at Newcastle United. The Swede is a highly-coveted target for the Merseysiders, who have reportedly indicated the idea of making a British Record bid for the Swedish striker.
Newcastle United have remained steadfast in their stance that Isak is not for sale. As a response, Liverpool have gone on to make an approach for Ekitike. The Reds were keen on Ekitike for some time, but always considered him a high-quality alternative to Isak.
Ekitike has come in for massive demand in the market following a season in which he scored and assisted 34 times across all competitions. Manchester United are also keen, although it’s the interest from Liverpool that could pique the striker’s interest. Newcastle United are already concerned about losing out on Ekitike amid high-profile interest from the likes of Liverpool, as Eintracht Frankfurt might be the biggest beneficiary here.
Eintracht Frankfurt are the likely winner in the Hugo Ekitike saga
Amidst the tussle between Liverpool and Newcastle United, both of whom are currently chasing Ekitike, the two clubs have possibly shown their cards in the process. For instance, Eintracht Frankfurt had long stayed adamant on their €100 million asking price, and while there were early indications that they might accept Newcastle United’s offer, they might ask for the previous asking price.
Liverpool are desperate to sign a striker as they are keen to offload Darwin Nunez, while the sad demise of Diogo Jota has caused further shortages in their striker department. With Liverpool showcasing their financial muscle in the pursuit of Isak, Eintracht Frankfurt will likely demand their top price for the striker, and should they achieve that, they will be seen as the clear winner in this saga.