Liverpool have reportedly reached a transfer breakthrough with Hugo Ekitike, the Eintracht Frankfurt forward, who is said to have rejected an approach from Manchester United in favour of a move to Anfield.

The 23-year-old has been on the radar of several top clubs this summer, with Newcastle United also heavily linked. However, their unwillingness to lower their valuation of Alexander Isak forced Liverpool to explore other options — and Ekitike emerged as a prime target.

With Darwin Núñez’s long-term role still uncertain and Luis Díaz attracting interest from elite European clubs, Arne Slot’s side has been actively pursuing a new attacking threat. According to Fabrice Hawkins, Ekitike has agreed in principle to a six-year contract with Liverpool, expressing a strong preference to join the Reds over any other suitor.

Manchester United were reportedly in the mix, but the forward is believed to have turned them down within the last 24 hours. Meanwhile, Newcastle — who had made a substantial offer thought to be worth over £69 million — have now stepped away from the race, especially as Frankfurt held firm on their valuation, believed to include an £87 million release clause.

Fabrizio Romano also confirmed that Newcastle have ended negotiations, shifting focus to alternative targets. As it stands, talks between Liverpool and Frankfurt are ongoing to finalize the transfer fee for Ekitike.

🗞️ Also Trending: Liverpool have also been unexpectedly linked with Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford. While no official talks have progressed, reports suggest the Englishman features on a shortlist of centre-forward options being considered at Anfield. Rashford recently returned to United after a season-long loan at Aston Villa, but his future remains uncertain.