Ekitike to Liverpool: Could the Premier League champions sign a 30-goal forward after Ekitike?

Liverpool and Eintracht Frankfurt have reached an agreement for the transfer of forward Hugo Ekitike, with formalities expected to be completed soon. 

If all conditions of the deal are met, it could set a club record for Frankfurt, surpassing the €95million transfer of Randal Kolo Muani to Paris Saint-Germain. 

Personal terms for Ekitike, who has drawn interest from Newcastle United, are not anticipated to be a problem. 

Liverpool have been focusing on strengthening their striking options this summer following the passing of Diogo Jota. 

Ekitike joined the Bundesliga club from PSG initially on loan in January 2024, scoring 26 goals and providing 14 assists in his subsequent seasons.

Despite the young forward’s imminent arrival, the Reds have also been linked with Crystal Palace forward Jean-Philippe Mateta. 

According to Football Insider, Mateta, who scored 14 Premier League goals last season after notching 16 the year before, is unlikely to join Liverpool. 

The Frenchman is said to be positioned lower on Liverpool's transfer shortlist, and the Reds will no longer pursue the Palace man. 

However, despite Liverpool's reported decision, Mateta could still leave Palace, as Manchester United and AC Milan are among the clubs interested in signing him. 

Liverpool next face AC Milan on July 26.