Hugo Ekitike set to feature in friendly amid Liverpool transfer talks
Ekitike is poised to sign a six-year contract with Liverpool
Hugo Ekitike has agreed personal terms on a transfer to Liverpool, but the striker is still expected to play for Eintracht Frankfurt in their friendly match on Saturday.
Ekitike is poised to sign a six-year contract with Liverpool, which would keep him at the club until 2031.
This deal would mark Liverpool’s second-largest signing of the summer.
Both clubs are reportedly eager to finalise the agreement quickly, with Frankfurt reportedly pushing for completion by Friday.
However, the transfer process is still ongoing. As it stands, Ekitike will take part in Frankfurt’s opening pre-season friendly against FSV Frankfurt on Saturday evening.
According to German publication Kicker, Frankfurt fans may get “one last chance” to see their No. 11 in action before he packs his bags and boards the plane.”
The friendly kicks off at 4pm GMT, and Ekitike’s involvement suggests the transfer is not imminent – playing could risk injury before any medicals take place.
The situation “could change at any time if an agreement emerges,” but there remain uncertainties, with Liverpool reportedly “not closing the door” on pursuing Alexander Isak as an alternative.
Frankfurt will travel to the United States on Tuesday for friendlies against Aston Villa, Louisville City, and Philadelphia Union.
Ekitike might still join Frankfurt’s US tour, but with Liverpool beginning their own pre-season tour a day earlier, a final decision is expected by Sunday at the latest.
Frankfurt value Ekitike between €90million (£78m) and €100million (£86.7m), with the higher figure matching his release clause. It remains unclear whether Liverpool are willing to meet this price.
The Athletic’s David Ornstein reports that Liverpool’s current offer exceeds €80million (£69.2m).
Liverpool have already demonstrated their readiness to spend big this summer, breaking the British transfer record by signing Florian Wirtz for £116million.
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