Liverpool are close to signing Hugo Ekitike from Eintracht Frankfurt, but only if Newcastle confirm Alexander Isak is not for sale this summer.
Liverpool are seriously progressing in negotiations to sign French striker Hugo Ekitike from Eintracht Frankfurt, but the transfer is dependent on Newcastle United’s decision regarding Alexander Isak. Since the start of the window, Newcastle have held a firm not-for-sale stance on the Swedish forward. However, unless they explicitly shut the door on any possibility of selling Isak, Liverpool will hold off finalizing the Ekitike deal. Interestingly, Newcastle already submitted an official offer for Ekitike, which was rejected by Eintracht Frankfurt on Monday night. Liverpool have since stepped up their efforts, holding active discussions with both the German club and Ekitike’s representatives to hash out final terms. The Merseyside club is clearly planning alternative options in case the Isak pursuit does not materialize. This move aligns with Liverpool’s strategic planning ahead of the 2025/26 season, ensuring squad depth and a reliable goalscoring threat. For now, the football world waits for Newcastle's next move, which will likely dictate the fate of both transfers. With the transfer window heating up, this domino effect between Ekitike and Isak could be one of the most pivotal storylines in Liverpool’s summer.
As the summer transfer window intensifies, Liverpool are maneuvering behind the scenes to bolster their attacking line-up. The focus is now on French striker Hugo Ekitike, currently with Eintracht Frankfurt, but the Reds’ move is not straightforward. The club is preparing to complete the signing only if Alexander Isak remains at Newcastle, effectively making this a “Plan B” contingency deal.
Alexander Isak has been a long-standing target for Liverpool, but Newcastle have maintained their no-sale stance since the beginning of the window. However, that position hasn't been officially communicated as unchangeable. If the Magpies completely close off the possibility of selling Isak, Liverpool will turn their full attention to Ekitike and attempt to wrap up negotiations swiftly.
Interestingly, Newcastle also attempted to secure Ekitike earlier in the week with an official proposal. The bid, however, was turned down by Eintracht Frankfurt, suggesting they are open to discussions but want the right price and terms. Liverpool’s reputation and forward-thinking structure could sway both the club and the player to agree on personal and financial terms.
Jürgen Klopp is aiming to refresh his squad with a dynamic attacker who can play across the front three. Ekitike’s pace, movement, and finishing abilities make him an ideal candidate. Though he didn’t find consistency in previous stints with PSG and Frankfurt, Liverpool’s developmental system might offer him the platform to thrive under pressure.
Should Liverpool succeed in signing Ekitike, it could signal a shift in the balance of attacking threats in the league. Newcastle, in turn, might be forced to revisit their forward line plans, especially if interest in Isak continues to rise from clubs like Real Madrid or Bayern Munich.
With the transfer deadline approaching, decisions must be made quickly. All eyes are on Newcastle United to make a definitive call on Isak. Once that domino falls, Liverpool will act immediately, either closing the Ekitike deal or holding out for their top target.