Liverpool target €100m-rated Hugo Ekitike as striker

Liverpool target Hugo Ekitike from Frankfurt after Wirtz interest; Chelsea seen as main rival for €100m-rated striker.

Liverpool FC have identified Eintracht Frankfurt’s Hugo Ekitike as a potential attacking reinforcement, following earlier links to Florian Wirtz.

The Reds are reportedly in early contact with the 22-year-old French striker as part of their summer recruitment strategy.

Sky Sport’s Florian Plettenberg reports that manager Arne Slot and managing director Michael Edwards have initiated exploratory talks, marking the club’s latest move in the Bundesliga market.

🚨🆕 The next big target from the Bundesliga: Understand FC Liverpool are now seriously in the race for Hugo #Ekitike!

Talks have taken place. Slot/Edwards keen on him. The biggest rival at the moment: Chelsea.

Eintracht Frankfurt have not yet received an offer. Markus Krösche… pic.twitter.com/aCflXT3QYU

— Florian Plettenberg (@Plettigoal) May 28, 2025

Ekitike enjoyed a breakthrough season with Eintracht Frankfurt, scoring 15 goals and assisting nine in the 2024–25 campaign.

His contributions were instrumental in guiding Frankfurt to their first-ever UEFA Champions League qualification through league placement.

Frankfurt are understood to be holding firm on a valuation of €100 million, with sporting director Markus Krösche yet to receive a formal offer from any club.

Chelsea are currently seen as Liverpool’s main competitor in the race for the striker’s signature.

This development follows Liverpool’s reported interest in Bayer Leverkusen’s Florian Wirtz, suggesting a clear focus on young, high-impact Bundesliga talent under Slot’s leadership.

While no agreement has been reached, Liverpool’s strategic approach mirrors their method during past high-profile signings.

Ekitike, previously linked with several top European clubs, could represent a long-term attacking option at Anfield.

The striker’s performances under Dino Toppmöller have drawn praise across Germany, and his potential Premier League switch is expected to be closely monitored over the coming weeks.