In a stunning twist in the summer transfer market, Manchester City have emerged as surprise contenders to sign Eintracht Frankfurt’s prolific striker Hugo Ekitike, a player heavily linked with Liverpool and Arsenal. The Premier League champions, under the guidance of new director of football Hugo Viana, have reportedly opened talks with the 22-year-old Frenchman’s agent, aiming to secure a blockbuster €100m deal. This audacious move, which has set tongues wagging across European football, could see City outmaneuver their rivals to land one of the continent’s deadliest forwards, reshaping their attack for the 2025-26 season.
Ekitike’s meteoric rise at Frankfurt has made him a prime target for Europe’s elite clubs. After a lackluster loan spell at Paris Saint-Germain in 2022-23, the former Reims prodigy has rediscovered his form, netting an astonishing 22 goals in 46 matches this season. His lethal finishing, combined with his physicality and flair, has drawn comparisons to a young Thierry Henry. Liverpool, fresh off a Premier League title, view Ekitike as the ideal addition to ease the goalscoring burden on Mohamed Salah, with scouts regularly attending Frankfurt’s matches. Arsenal, meanwhile, see him as a dynamic alternative to Newcastle’s Alexander Isak, whose price tag has soared beyond reach. “He’s one of the deadliest No. 9s in Europe,” a scout reportedly said, underscoring Ekitike’s appeal.
City’s interest, however, has thrown a wrench into the plans of their Premier League rivals. With Erling Haaland firmly established as their first-choice striker, City’s pursuit of Ekitike raises eyebrows, especially after their €75m January signing of Frankfurt’s Omar Marmoush as a replacement for Julian Alvarez. “City are always looking for that extra edge,” a club insider noted, suggesting Pep Guardiola sees Ekitike as a versatile forward capable of complementing Haaland or providing depth. Viana’s proactive approach, including direct discussions with Ekitike’s representatives, has positioned City as a frontrunner, despite competition from Manchester United and Chelsea. Frankfurt, buoyed by Ekitike’s contract until 2029 and their likely Champions League qualification, are in a strong position to demand a fee around €100m (£85m/$113m).
For Liverpool, losing out on Ekitike would be a blow to their ambitious summer plans. Manager Arne Slot has been urged to bolster his attack, with a former Reds midfielder telling reporters, “They need a goalscorer to take the weight off Mo Salah.” Ekitike’s blend of pace, power, and clinical finishing makes him a perfect fit, and Liverpool’s scouts have been tracking him for months. Arsenal, too, are keen, viewing Ekitike as a statement signing to elevate their title challenge. Yet City’s financial muscle and Guardiola’s allure could tip the scales, with reports indicating Ekitike’s agent is open to negotiations.
The transfer saga has sparked fervent debate among fans, with social media posts reflecting the intensity of the race. “City snatching Ekitike from under Liverpool’s nose would be unreal!” one supporter wrote, while another lamented, “Liverpool can’t let this slip!” Frankfurt’s strong negotiating stance, coupled with Ekitike’s stellar form, ensures the deal won’t come cheap, but City’s recent transfer activity—raising over £80m from Alvarez’s sale—gives them the financial flexibility to pursue such a high-profile target.
Ekitike’s journey adds intrigue to the story. After turning down Newcastle in 2022 and enduring a challenging stint at PSG, his resurgence in Germany showcases his resilience. A move to City would likely mean less guaranteed playing time behind Haaland, but the chance to work under Guardiola and compete for trophies could sway him. For Liverpool and Arsenal, the clock is ticking to counter City’s bold move. As the summer window approaches, this €100m battle promises to be one of the transfer market’s most compelling dramas, with Ekitike’s decision set to shape the Premier League’s attacking landscape.
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