Sources within Bundesliga club Eintracht Frankfurt reportedly anticipate the departure of striker Hugo Ekitike this summer, a player attracting significant interest from Liverpool.
Liverpool have begun shaping their squad for the upcoming season with several significant early signings, a strategy largely praised by observers.
Notable additions to Arne Slot`s squad already include Jeremie Frimpong, Milos Kerkez, and club-record signing Florian Wirtz.
Speculation is rife that Uruguayan forward Darwin Nunez is set to depart Anfield this window, prompting the club to seek attacking reinforcements.
Among the forwards strongly linked with a move to Merseyside is Eintracht Frankfurt`s Hugo Ekitike, who has impressed during his time in Germany.
However, the German club are reportedly reluctant to part ways with the French attacker and are demanding a substantial fee, believed to be around €100 million.
While Liverpool are reportedly unwilling to meet this valuation, German journalist Christopher Michel suggests the internal sentiment at Eintracht Frankfurt is that Ekitike is likely to leave this summer regardless.
Frankfurt CEO Markus Krosche is currently holding firm on his financial demands for the France U21 international. However, the club`s internal expectation of the player`s departure could potentially lead to flexibility later in the transfer window.
Ekitike remains under a long-term contract with the Bundesliga side, placing Eintracht Frankfurt in a strong bargaining position for any potential transfer fee.
Other clubs previously linked with Ekitike include Chelsea, who are now reportedly close to signing Joao Pedro, and Arsenal.
The key question remains whether Liverpool will eventually be willing to meet Die Adler`s considerable valuation for Ekitike at some point during the current transfer window.
Ekitike`s contributions were instrumental in helping Frankfurt manage the loss of Omar Marmoush in the winter window and secure qualification for European competition.
