Liverpool are reportedly in advanced discussions to sign Hugo Ekitike, the French forward currently with Eintracht Frankfurt. The 23-year-old striker is also a target for Newcastle United, but complications in their pursuit have led them to pivot towards Yoane Wissa of Brentford.
Ekitike’s Career and Transfer Saga
Ekitike, who first signed with Reims in 2020, quickly rose through the ranks before moving to Paris Saint-Germain on a season-long loan in 2021. His permanent transfer to PSG in 2022 cost the French champions £30.6 million. After a season of limited appearances, Ekitike moved to Eintracht Frankfurt on loan in January 2024, with a permanent move secured in the summer of that year.
During the 2024/25 season, Ekitike played a key role in Frankfurt’s third-place finish in the Bundesliga, securing a spot in the Champions League.
Liverpool’s Pursuit
While Newcastle had been in pole position to sign Ekitike, their £70 million offer to Eintracht Frankfurt was rejected, prompting Liverpool to step in. The Reds are exploring Ekitike as an alternative to their primary target, Alexander Isak, who Newcastle has made clear is not for sale. With Newcastle’s attempts to land Ekitike running into obstacles, Liverpool have reportedly ramped up their interest in the French forward.
Newcastle Turns Attention to Wissa
In response to their failed Ekitike bid, Newcastle have turned their attention to Yoane Wissa, a 28-year-old forward at Brentford. Wissa has scored 45 goals in 137 Premier League appearances since joining Brentford from Lorient in 2021. Despite interest from other clubs, including Tottenham and Nottingham Forest, Newcastle is looking to make a move for the Democratic Republic of Congo international.
Although Brentford are reluctant to lose Wissa and Bryan Mbeumo this summer, Wissa is reportedly open to a move if it offers him the chance to play in Champions League football.
What’s Next?
As the summer transfer window heats up, both Liverpool and Newcastle are set to push for their targets, with Ekitike and Wissa at the center of their respective moves. Newcastle’s efforts to secure a new centre-forward remain a priority as they ramp up their efforts in the coming days.
