Liverpool are reshaping their attacking line-up for the 2025/26 Premier League season, with centre-forward Hugo Ekitike high on their priority list.
After spending over 190 million pounds on five new signings this summer, the Reds are poised to make further moves, but their pursuit of Newcastle’s star striker Alexander Isak has hit a dead end, according to transfer expert David Ornstein.
Newcastle have no intention of letting Isak go, with the Magpies viewing the 25-year-old Swede as central to their plans after securing Champions League football.
Ornstein, speaking on the Sky Sports Back Pages Today podcast, said: “The sale of Alexander Isak is not on the agenda for Newcastle. They want him to stay. They would love him to renew his contract. The price would be extortionate, talk of 150 million pounds.”
With Isak’s hefty price tag and Newcastle’s firm stance, Liverpool have turned their attention to Eintracht Frankfurt’s Hugo Ekitike. The 22-year-old French striker, who scored 22 goals in 48 appearances last season, has emerged as a prime target.
Transfer insider Fabrizio Romano has provided optimism for Liverpool fans, stating on YouTube: “Liverpool are working on this deal. They are discussing the possibility of adding Hugo Ekitike to their squad. They are waiting to understand what happens with Darwin Nunez, with conversations ongoing with Napoli.”
Romano later added: “His future remains open, but the Premier League still remains the most likely destination for Ekitike. I would maintain Liverpool as one of the options, because they have always had a strong interest in his signing.”
Eintracht Frankfurt are open to a sale but demand around 100 million euros for the former Paris Saint-Germain forward.
Liverpool’s pursuit of a new striker hinges on the potential departure of Darwin Nunez, who has struggled for consistency since his 70 million-pound move in 2022. Napoli have shown strong interest, with Nunez reportedly giving “total priority” to the Italian club, though negotiations have stalled over a valuation gap.
Napoli’s 50 million-euro bid was rejected, as Liverpool hold out for a higher fee. Recent posts on X suggest Nunez is “close to Napoli” and has already agreed to the move, further fueling speculation of an imminent exit.
The Reds’ transfer strategy also faces challenges elsewhere. Defender Ibrahima Konate has been linked with a move to Atletico Madrid, while Liverpool are reportedly exploring a bold double raid on Barcelona for two unnamed players.
Meanwhile, Newcastle’s interest in Ekitike could complicate matters, though their recent 64 million-euro signing of Anthony Elanga may limit their ability to meet Frankfurt’s asking price without a major sale.
As Liverpool prepare to defend their Premier League title, manager Arne Slot is focused on securing a reliable goalscorer to replace Nunez. While Isak remains the “dream” target, Ekitike’s blend of youth, pace, and proven scoring ability makes him a strong alternative.
With the transfer window still open, the Reds are poised for a decisive move to bolster their attack.
