Further talks scheduled today as Liverpool transfer target “awaits” agreement between clubs

Liverpool’s summer transfer activity shows no signs of slowing down as the Reds edge closer to a potential deal for highly rated French striker Hugo Ekitike. After weeks of behind-the-scenes manoeuvring, fresh discussions are reportedly scheduled for today between Liverpool and Bundesliga side Eintracht Frankfurt, with the player himself eager for the move to materialise.

The 23-year-old Ekitike has emerged as a top target for Arne Slot, who has identified the young striker as a potential long-term solution to Liverpool’s attacking inconsistencies. Ekitike’s standout campaign in Germany — where he bagged 22 goals and provided 11 assists across all competitions — has not gone unnoticed by Europe’s elite, but it’s Liverpool who appear to be leading the race for his signature.

According to Sky Germany’s Florian Plettenberg, talks between Liverpool and Frankfurt are ongoing, though no final agreement had been reached as of Thursday evening. Plettenberg confirmed via X (formerly Twitter) that Ekitike is “awaiting” the clubs to come to terms, with personal terms already nearing completion. This suggests the transfer hinges solely on the two clubs reaching a mutually acceptable fee.

“Ekitike wants the move,” Plettenberg stated, adding further weight to the notion that the player has his heart set on Anfield. While no figures have been disclosed officially, insiders suggest Liverpool’s initial offer hasn’t yet met Frankfurt’s expectations, prompting the need for further negotiations.

Should the deal go through, Ekitike would add a fresh dimension to Liverpool’s frontline, offering pace, composure, and a clinical edge that has arguably been missing since the erratic form of Darwin Nunez. With uncertainty still surrounding the Uruguayan’s future, Ekitike could be viewed not just as competition, but as a potential replacement should Nunez depart.

Arne Slot, who recently took the reins at Liverpool, has already made a number of high-profile additions in his bid to build a title-challenging squad. The arrivals of Florian Wirtz, Jeremie Frimpong, and Milos Kerkez have injected youth and dynamism into the team. Ekitike, should he join, would be another statement signing that underlines Liverpool’s intent for the upcoming season.

What makes Ekitike such an appealing prospect isn’t just his goalscoring output, but his intelligent movement off the ball and ability to link up play. He has shown maturity beyond his years, and sources close to the deal believe Slot is particularly impressed by his versatility, being able to operate as a lone striker or as part of a front two.

Liverpool’s bold approach in the market this summer is perhaps driven by the need to not only maintain but surpass the momentum of last season’s title win. With Manchester City, Arsenal, and even Newcastle reinforcing heavily, Liverpool cannot afford to stand still — and acquiring Ekitike is seen as a move that could give them an edge in the title race.

While the striker himself is reportedly calm and patient about the ongoing negotiations, today’s talks are crucial. Both parties are under pressure to wrap things up soon, especially with pre-season already underway and Slot keen to integrate his new additions quickly.

Frankfurt, for their part, are believed to be open to selling Ekitike for the right price, provided they can find a suitable replacement in time. Their reluctance so far stems from wanting to maximise the value of one of their prized assets, especially given the level of interest the striker has drawn across Europe.

As of now, all eyes will be on today’s meeting between Liverpool and Frankfurt. Fans are eager for an official announcement, and if personal terms are already aligned, all that remains is for the clubs to agree on the structure of the deal. If successful, it could mark another key step in what’s shaping up to be a transformative window at Anfield.