Liverpool are reportedly gearing up to begin initial talks with Eintracht Frankfurt over a potential move for striker Hugo Ekitike, according to GiveMeSport, although Nunez would need to leave to make room for Ekitike at Anfield
Softfootball understands that intermediaries have reportedly indicated to Frankfurt that Liverpool are now ready to begin talks, giving the Bundesliga side confidence that they could receive their full £86 million valuation before the transfer window closes.
The Reds made a quick start to the summer transfer window with the Liverpool hierarchy backing Slot in the market after he delivered the Premier League title in his first season in charge.
His early transfer window reward was the big-name signings of Florian Wirtz, Jeremie Frimpong and Milos Kerkez, while Armin Pecsi and Freddie Woodman also joined the goalkeeping department.
Liverpool are still understood to be in the market for further additions with rumours that they still want a central defender, central midfielder and a striker.
Ekitike, who impressed during the 2024/25 campaign, is firmly on Arne Slot’s radar, and Frankfurt remain optimistic that a deal can be struck in the coming weeks.
Liverpool aren’t alone in their interest, Newcastle and Chelsea have also tracked the 23-year-old striker while Saudi clubs Al-Hilal and Al-Qadsiah have explored the possibility of a move.
Nevertheless, Frankfurt are standing firm on their price and are unwilling to negotiate a lower fee.
Frankfurt now believe Liverpool are best placed to meet their valuation, with Manchester United, Arsenal and Chelsea all yet to make formal approaches.
In an earlier update, Softfootball reported that Liverpool turn down €55m Napoli bid for Darwin Nunez.
Liverpool has reportedly rejected a €55m offer from Napoli for striker Darwin Nunez as Antonio Conte looks to reinforce his squad ahead of the new season.
Liverpool are open to selling Nunez, who hasn’t quite fitted in under new manager Arne Slot, but wants a substantial amount more than the offered €55m. This isn’t the first time Nunez has been the subject of transfer interest.
There’s been intense speculation connecting the Italian champions with the Uruguayan forward, but Liverpool are holding out for a higher fee. The offer, which includes €50m upfront and €5m in add-ons, was reportedly made earlier last week and was quickly rejected by the Reds
