Newcastle are out of the running to sign Hugo Ekitike from Eintracht Frankfurt, leaving Manchester United and Liverpool fighting for his signature.
Softfootball gathered that Eddie Howe’s side were keen on adding the French striker to their attack after signing Anthony Elanga from Nottingham Forest for £55m ($73m) earlier this month.
The Magpies had been monitoring Ekitike for some time and had a €75m (£64m/$86m) bid for him rejected. They deemed Ekitike as the perfect fit to replace departed Callum Wilson.
Events have now switched as The Athletic reports that the Magpies are now after Brentford’s Yoane Wissa after they deemed Ekitike to be too expensive. With the recent turns of events, Liverpool have become the main team in for the 23 year old striker, who scored 22 goals for Eintracht last season.
Frankfurt are holding out for €100m for Ekitike and Man United are reported to be the only club ready to rival Liverpool for his signature.
Reports say that the Reds are not expecting personal terms to be an issue, with Fabrice Hawkins and Fabrizio Romano claiming that the striker has already agreed a six-year contract. While Liverpool advance in their pursuit after intial contacts, United have not yet made a formal offer.
Fabrizio Romano wrote on his X handle:
🚨🔴 EXCL: Liverpool have submitted official bid to Eintracht for Hugo Ekitike!
Eintracht already informed Liverpool that they want more, proposal rejected but it was initial contact as talks continue.
Ekitike said 𝐲𝐞𝐬 Liverpool, no issues on personal terms. He wants #LFC. pic.twitter.com/AflvOaro2h
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 17, 2025Earlier, Softfootball reports indicates that Ekitike had been in the news since the transfer window opened as his club Frankfurt have it clear they will only listen to €100m offers.
Eintracht Frankfurt are anticipating offers for €100m-rated Hugo Ekitike, amid interest from a number of Premier League clubs this month. The club is only preparing for any eventuality and is lining up possible replacements for the French striker.
German journalist Florian Plettenberg reports that Frankfurt are preparing to field offers from English clubs ahead of the new season. Newcastle, Liverpool and Manchester United are all believed to be admirers of the 23-year-old.
