Who Will Go for €100m Hugo Ekitike? Liverpool & Man Utd Circling as Frankfurt Brace for Summer Transfer Bids
Frankfurt Ready for Offers as Premier League Giants Eye Star Striker
As the summer transfer window heats up, Eintracht Frankfurt are bracing themselves for a possible bidding war over one of their crown jewels. Hugo Ekitike, the 23-year-old French forward who set the Bundesliga alight in the 2024-25 season, is now the subject of intense interest from several Premier League powerhouses, including Liverpool and Manchester United. With Frankfurt slapping a hefty €100 million (£86m/$117m) price tag on their star striker, the question now is: who will take the plunge?
A Breakout Season That Changed Everything
Ekitike’s career took a major turn this past season. Having joined Frankfurt with big expectations, the young forward delivered in emphatic fashion. After the departure of Omar Marmoush to Manchester City in January, all eyes turned to Hugo Ekitike to lead the line — and he did just that.
By the time the final whistle blew on the season, Hugo Ekitike had notched 22 goals and 12 assists across all competitions. His blend of pace, physicality, and technical finesse made him a nightmare for Bundesliga defenders and a dream target for scouts from Europe’s elite. Unsurprisingly, his performances helped Frankfurt qualify for the UEFA Champions League, raising both his stock and his club’s bargaining power.
Interest From England: Liverpool, Man Utd, Newcastle
Premier League clubs are rarely shy when it comes to spending, and Hugo Ekitike’s name has landed firmly on the radar of England’s top brass. Florian Plettenberg, a trusted source on all things Bundesliga, reports that Eintracht Frankfurt are expecting formal interest from England soon.
Liverpool are said to be admirers of the French striker, especially as they look to reshape their attacking options under Arne Slot. With uncertainty around the future of Mohamed Salah and a need to inject youth and dynamism into the frontline, Hugo Ekitike fits the bill perfectly.
Manchester United, under new manager Ruben Amorim, are also actively hunting for a clinical forward to pair with or possibly replace Rasmus Højlund. Amorim is looking to reshape the squad after a disastrous 15th-place finish in the Premier League last season. The Old Trafford hierarchy see Hugo Ekitike as a potential statement signing — young, explosive, and already experienced at the top level.
Newcastle United have also been linked with Hugo Ekitike in the past, and with Alexander Isak drawing attention from rival clubs, the Magpies could reignite their interest.
Chelsea Cools Interest
Chelsea were previously interested in Hugo Ekitike but have likely stepped back after sealing a £60 million ($81m) deal for João Pedro. The Blues, while still eager to reinforce their squad, are focused elsewhere now and are not expected to enter the Hugo Ekitike sweepstakes.
Frankfurt’s Stance: Sell or Hold?
Despite the mounting interest, Frankfurt are in no rush to cash in. The club is financially stable and will be competing in the Champions League this season — a huge incentive for any player. Sporting director Markus Krösche has reiterated that Hugo Ekitike remains central to the club’s project.
The €100m valuation reflects not just the player’s talent but also the club’s willingness to keep him unless a truly irresistible offer lands on the table. Frankfurt are keen to avoid a last-minute scramble and are determined to dictate the pace of negotiations.
“We know Hugo’s value,” Krösche recently said. “He’s one of the most promising forwards in Europe and we want to build around him. If an offer comes that makes sense for all parties, we will evaluate it. But we are not actively looking to sell.”
Balancing Books: The Financial Puzzle for Buyers
Any club serious about signing Hugo Ekitike will have to make moves of their own. With Financial Fair Play regulations tightening and balance sheets under scrutiny, a €100m deal likely means one or two outgoings first. For United, that might involve moving on players like Mason Greenwood or Jadon Sancho. Liverpool could look to offload fringe attackers like Darwin Núñez or Diogo Jota, though those decisions will depend heavily on Slot’s tactical plans.
Ekitike: Ready for the Next Step
In his recent media interactions, Hugo Ekitike has remained humble and focused, but there’s a sense that he knows his stock is on the rise. Insiders close to the player suggest that he is open to a move but will not force Frankfurt’s hand.
“He’s ambitious but respectful,” said one agent familiar with the situation. “The Champions League is a big deal, but so is the Premier League. Hugo knows that if the right club and project comes along, it could be time for the next chapter.”
What Happens Next?
With the window still in its early stages and preseason fast approaching, this saga is far from over. Frankfurt expect the first official bids to arrive in late July or early August. Meanwhile, Liverpool and Manchester United will be weighing up whether to go all in on the French striker or pivot to more affordable targets.
Ekitike himself is back in training and focused on staying sharp, knowing full well that any week could bring a major twist to his career.
Final Thoughts
Hugo Ekitike’s rise has been rapid but well-earned. Now, as Eintracht Frankfurt brace for what could be one of the summer’s biggest deals, the ball is in the court of the Premier League’s elite. Will Liverpool pounce to replace Salah long-term? Will Manchester United finally land a consistent striker? Or will Hugo Ekitike remain in Germany to lead Frankfurt into Europe?
Whatever happens, this transfer saga is only just beginning.
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