Hugo Ekitike reacts to transfer announcement amid Liverpool and Newcastle saga
Hugo Ekitike has found himself in the middle of a transfer battle between Newcastle United and Liverpool.
The Frankfurt striker enjoyed a successful campaign for the German club last term, scoring 22 goals and producing 12 assists in 48 appearances across all competitions last term.
Amid interest in the 23-year-old from the North East club, Ekitike’s agent was in Newcastle on Monday, 14 July.
But as Arne Slot looks to strengthen his forward line, Liverpool could hijack Newcastle’s move for Ekitike, who proved he can perform against Premier League opponents by scoring against Tottenham in the Europa League quarter-final in April.
Ekitike reacts as Ipswich Town sign Azor Matusiwa
While the Frankfurt striker is set for a move to the Premier League, Ipswich Town have been busy in the transfer market as they look to return to the top flight.
Amid their efforts to secure their second promotion from the Championship in three years, the Tractor Boys have signed midfielder Azor Matusiwa from Rennes.
The 27-year-old shared his delight at the move via Instagram on Tuesday, 15 July, as he wrote: “So happy and thankful to join the Ipswich Town family!
“Feels great to be on board! Ready to give everything for the club, crowd, and achieve big things together!”
Matusiwa’s message attracted a like from Ekitike, whose next destination will likely hinge on whether Liverpool can sign Alexander Isak from Newcastle.
Ekitike should favour Liverpool over Newcastle if Slot can’t sign Isak
Football Insider verdict
Amid Slot’s eagerness to strengthen his forward line, Football Insider have exclusively revealed that Liverpool are set to bid £130million for Isak.
| Hugo Ekitike stats | All competitions 2024/25 |
| Appearances | 48 |
| Goals | 22 |
| Assists | 12 |
The Merseyside giants’ best-case scenario is that they sign the prolific Sweden international from the Magpies, as they strive to win more silverware.
But Newcastle are equally keen to retain the 25-year-old despite their interest in Ekitike.
If Eddie Howe’s men retain Isak, and both Premier League clubs remain keen on the Frankfurt star, he should favour a move to Anfield over that of St James’ Park.
Even though Liverpool are a stronger side than Newcastle, Ekitike would enjoy more minutes for the Reds, should Howe manage to keep Isak.
A prolific out-and-out striker is an asset that is currently missing from Slot’s starting 11, so a transfer to the North West would make sense for the former PSG man.
Meanwhile, Isak has been tipped to be tempted by the Anfield club’s advances in a Liverpool News 247 exclusive.