Liverpool are in talks with Eintracht Frankfurt over a deal to sign Hugo Ekitike and they may complete the deal for the cheaper than expected.
The Reds have acted swiftly in their pursuit of Ekitike, quickly turning their attention to the French striker after Newcastle United stood firm on their Alexander Isak stance.
The Swede is not for sale – even at the £120m price point that Liverpool were ready to commit to. Liverpool are reportedly not giving up and hope that their stance changes this summer and if it doesn’t, they will return for him next summer when Newcastle are in a more vulnerable position contract-wise.
Liverpool have already agreed personal terms with Ekitike on a six-year contract.
Yet, despite terms agreed with the forward, Liverpool and Frankfurt are not progressing rapidly in talks although, reportedly, this is not an issue and the club is relaxed about the situation.
Talks between Liverpool and Frankfurt are continuing as the Reds look to haggle on £87m asking price
Yesterday, we covered claims that suggested Frankfurt are confident they will receive the full €100m (£87m) they are demanding for Ekitike but today, it seems Liverpool are hoping to pay less than that.
Sky Sports journalist Mark McAdam has provided an update on the ongoing talks between the two clubs, revealing Liverpool hope to reach agreement on a £75m fee – £7m less than Frankfurt are asking for.
McAdam reports: “[Full agreement] not close at the moment.
“This is one of the things you find, reporting about transfers now is becoming such a difficult job because there’s so much noise on social media and if you were to believe everything you’d think the deal to Liverpool is done and dusted.”
McAdams continued: “Hold your horses, Liverpool fans calm down, it’s progressing but it’s not happening at any pace and Liverpool are comfortable with that at the moment.
“There are talks between Liverpool and Frankfurt over the signing of Hugo Ekitike, Sky Sports News understands there’s been no offer at this stage, the package that’s being discussed is around £75m.
“The key thing Liverpool have on their side is that Ekitike wants to join them, he’s made that quite clear privately. Personal terms are not going to be a problem for the player, so that part is progressing nicely.”
