Liverpool Edging Closer to Hugo Ekitike Transfer: Outline Agreement Reached
Liverpool and Eintracht Frankfurt have reportedly reached an "outline of agreement" for the transfer of French striker Hugo Ekitike. The deal, potentially exceeding €90 million (£78 million), comes after Liverpool submitted an improved second bid for the highly-rated forward.
Key Details of the Proposed Transfer
The proposed transfer is structured around an €80 million (£69 million) fee plus performance-based add-ons. If all add-ons are met, the total package could surpass Frankfurt's club-record sale of Randal Kolo Muani to Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), which was valued at €95 million.
Ekitike Agrees Personal Terms with Liverpool
Ekitike has already agreed to personal terms with Liverpool, signing a six-year contract that will keep him at Anfield until 2031. The 23-year-old is reportedly very keen on a move to the Premier League.
Ekitike Featured in Pre-Season Friendly Amidst Transfer Talks
Despite the ongoing negotiations, Ekitike featured for Eintracht Frankfurt in a pre-season friendly against FSV Frankfurt on July 19, 2025. His involvement highlights the complexities of finalizing the transfer while Frankfurt continues their pre-season preparations.
Liverpool's Interest Shifted After Isak Pursuit Falters
Liverpool's interest in Ekitike emerged earlier in the week after they were informed that Newcastle United's Alexander Isak was not for sale. Newcastle had also made an offer for Ekitike, which was rejected by Frankfurt.
Frankfurt Reportedly Gave Ekitike the Green Light
On July 18, 2025, Eintracht Frankfurt reportedly told Ekitike that they would not stand in his way if he wanted to complete a transfer to Liverpool.
Ekitike's Background and Previous Transfers
Ekitike's journey to this potential Liverpool move has been relatively short. In June 2023, his loan to PSG became a permanent deal worth €28.5 million plus €6.5 million in bonuses. In February 2024, Eintracht Frankfurt initially signed Ekitike on loan from PSG for €3.5 million. By the summer of 2024, Frankfurt made the transfer permanent for an additional €16.5 million.
Imminent Agreement Expected
With an outline agreement now in place, a formal agreement between Liverpool and Eintracht Frankfurt is expected within the next day or so. Liverpool's pre-season tour is set to begin on July 20, 2025, suggesting that a final decision on the transfer is imminent.
Liverpool's Summer Spending Spree
Liverpool have been very active in the transfer market this summer, already signing Florian Wirtz for a British record fee (£116 million), Jeremie Frimpong, Milos Kerkez, Giorgi Mamardashvili, Freddie Woodman, and Armin Pecsi. They also need a centre-back, with Marc Guehi being a prime candidate.
Frankfurt's Stance and Valuation
Eintracht Frankfurt are reportedly holding firm on their valuation of Ekitike, which aligns with or exceeds his €100 million release clause. The club has a history of successful negotiations for high-value player sales.
PSG's Sell-On Clause
Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) holds a 20% sell-on clause in Ekitike's contract, meaning they will receive a percentage of Frankfurt's profit from the sale.
Impact and Potential Consequences of the Transfer
The potential transfer fee exceeding $110.5 million is a significant financial commitment, especially considering Liverpool's other high-profile signings this summer. This raises questions about Financial Fair Play (FFP)/Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR), although reports suggest Liverpool is well within compliance due to recent modest spending and significant player sales, such as Trent Alexander-Arnold, Jarell Quansah, and Caoimhin Kelleher.
Alexander Isak Interest
Liverpool's shift from Alexander Isak to Ekitike, despite Isak being considered a "dream" target, might lead to some debate among fans regarding the best long-term option for the club's attack.
Ekitike as a Replacement for Nunez
Ekitike is largely seen as a replacement for Darwin Nunez, whose potential departure is a significant event for Liverpool's attacking setup. His performance will be under scrutiny as he fills a crucial role.
