Uncertainty Surrounds Hugo Ekitike Transfer As Liverpool Enter Race

Talks over Hugo Ekitike’s expected move to Newcastle United have hit a roadblock. There has been no progress in recent days. Meanwhile, Liverpool have started discussions with Eintracht Frankfurt, intensifying the battle to sign the French striker.

WHAT’S THE LATEST ON THE TRANSFER?

Despite earlier reports that suggested Newcastle were close to agreeing to a €80m deal for Hugo Ekitike, the transfer has stalled. Eintracht Frankfurt rejected a £70m bid from Newcastle. The Magpies haven’t submitted an improved bid since. Ekitike enjoyed a superb campaign for the Bundesliga outfit last season, scoring 22 goals and assisting 12 more in 48 matches. While his form has caught the attention of a number of clubs across Europe, Liverpool have stepped up their interest in the striker. The Reds are now in talks with the Bundesliga side, threatening to derail Newcastle’s hopes of signing their forward target.

TEAM PERFORMANCES AND TRANSFER CONTEXT

Newcastle want to sign Ekitike as the Magpies look to bolster their options in attack. They finished fifth in the Premier League last season, which saw them qualify for the Champions League on the last matchday of the season. Top scorer Alexander Isak is considered a Liverpool transfer target, with the Reds reportedly valuing him at around £120m. Liverpool also secured Champions League qualification after a season that saw them end up lifting the Premier League title. Mo Salah was their top scorer, but with the tragic passing of Diogo Jota and the lack of goals, and potential sale of Darwin Nunez, the team is on the lookout for a starting striker. Eintracht Frankfurt, who ended the season third in the Bundesliga, finished in the top four, thanks largely to Ekitike’s goals. They will no doubt want to retain the striker.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR EKITIKE AND THE CLUBS?

With transfer talks stalled, Newcastle must decide whether or not to raise their offer in order to force a move. Liverpool’s interest has complicated things. The Merseyside outfit continue to look for attacking reinforcements. They are interested in both Ekitike and Isak. Newcastle’s next match is a Premier League opener against Aston Villa, who finished just three points behind them in sixth last season. Eintracht Frankfurt kick off their Bundesliga campaign against Werder Bremen as they look to maintain the momentum after last season’s top-four finish.