Liverpool have sent a powerful message to their Premier League rivals by making a formal move for Eintracht Frankfurt striker Hugo Ekitike, leaving Manchester United stunned after the Frenchman reportedly rejected their approach within the last 24 hours.
According to multiple credible sources — including David Ornstein, Fabrizio Romano, and Fabrice Hawkins — Ekitike has already agreed personal terms on a six-year contract at Anfield. The Reds’ ambitious project under new manager Arne Slot appears to have convinced the 22-year-old forward, who produced an impressive season in the Bundesliga.
Liverpool’s initial offer was turned down by Frankfurt, but negotiations remain very active, and there is growing confidence at Anfield that a deal will be struck soon. Romano confirmed that Ekitike is only interested in joining Liverpool, despite receiving interest from Manchester United and Newcastle. The latter have now withdrawn from the race, unable to match Liverpool’s pace in the negotiations.
This would mark another statement signing for Liverpool, who have already snapped up Florian Wirtz, Jeremie Frimpong, and Milos Kerkez this window. The club is clearly assembling a squad not just to defend their Premier League title, but to challenge strongly in Europe as well.
For Manchester United, Ekitike’s snub is a bitter blow. Still searching for a solution to their striker conundrum, United now face renewed pressure from fans to act quickly in the market.
As things stand, Liverpool look set to win the race for one of Europe’s most exciting attacking prospects. The Reds’ aggressive and swift approach in this window is once again making them the club of choice for rising stars.
