Discussion underway for a potential signing of an £84m-valued Bundesliga attacker by Liverpool, aiming to strengthen their offensive line in the Premier League.
Liverpool and Chelsea are locked in a transfer battle for the signature of Bundesliga star Hugo Ekitike, according to reports. The French forward currently plays for Eintracht Frankfurt, who are said to value him at around €100million (£84million).
Liverpool have been aggressive in bolstering their attacking options, having sealed the Premier League title in manager Arne Slot's inaugural campaign. The Reds have been relying heavily on Mohamed Salah's 29-goal tally last season, but are yet to establish a centre-forward role.
Ekitike emerged as a target for Liverpool, having scored 22 goals in 45 games for Frankfurt this season. German football journalist Florian Plettenberg reported for Sky Sports that the Reds are now 'seriously in the race' for the forward, with manager Slot and chief executive Michael Edwards reportedly admirers of Ekitike.
However, Chelsea are thought to face stiff competition for his signature, with Frankfurt demanding the near three-figure sum. The Blues, who have qualified for the Champions League, may hold an advantage over rivals such as Manchester United in the transfer market due to their European competition status.
Chelsea are also understood to be interested in Eintricht Frankfurt striker Xavi Simons, who plays as an attacking midfielder. However, despite Simons being a target for the Blues, Liverpool have reportedly withdrawn their interest, paving the way for a potential Chelsea takeover.
Talks over targets are expected to accelerate now that the domestic season has finished, with both clubs eager to reinforce their squads before the Club World Cup.
Enzo Maresca's side may opt to look elsewhere, with Ipswich's Liam Delap and RB Leipzig's Benjamin Sesko also on their striker shortlist. The potential addition of Ekitike would provide significant competition for the established Chelsea frontline.
The transfer saga is set to unfold in the coming weeks, with both clubs hoping to secure a deal before the Club World Cup. In the meantime, attention will focus on the negotiations, with Chelsea seen as the front-runners at this stage.
- Liverpool, who have shown a business approach to strengthen their team after securing the Premier League title, are also interested in European football leagues, specifically the Bundesliga's Hugo Ekitike.
- In the sports world, the race for Ekitike, a prospective forward for Liverpool, has heated up, with Chelsea also expressing interest, making the transfer a sports-analysis subject due to the intense competition.
- Chelsea's potential addition of Ekitike could shake up the sports-analysis discussions, as they aim to establish a stronger frontline, potentially increasing competition within the club.
- Aside from Ekitike, sports-related news has emerged about Chelsea's interest in another Frankfurt player, Xavi Simons, which Liverpool have reportedly stepped away from, opening up more competition for Simons.
