‘I can tell you’: Pundit says Hugo Ekitike has decided which club he’d rather sign for – Liverpool or Newcaste

Hugo Ekitike has emerged as one of the most talked-about names in this summer’s transfer window, with both Liverpool and Newcastle United vying for his signature.

The French forward, currently at Eintracht Frankfurt, has caught the eye of two of the Premier League’s top clubs, and while the pursuit has intensified, the player’s own preference has now come to light, adding a new layer of intrigue to the race.

The summer transfer window has seen a surge in activity, especially in the striker market, which remained relatively dormant in June.

Clubs across Europe are now actively hunting for a prolific number nine, and while names like Viktor Gyökeres and Benjamin Šeško have dominated headlines, Ekitike’s stock has quietly risen.

He may not have generated the same buzz, but with 22 goals and 12 assists from 48 appearances in the 2024/25 season, his influence is undeniable. His consistent form in the Bundesliga has made him one of the hottest attacking prospects on the market.

Newcastle have had Ekitike on their radar for quite some time. The Magpies made previous attempts to secure his services during his time at Stade de Reims, only to miss out to Paris Saint-Germain.

That move to PSG stalled his development due to limited game time, but his resurgence in Germany has reignited Newcastle’s interest. Talks with Eintracht Frankfurt have progressed over recent days, signaling serious intent from the Tyneside club to finally get their man.

However, Liverpool’s entry into the race has added pressure. The Reds have made inquiries about Newcastle’s Alexander Isak, but with no progress on that front, they have now shifted their focus to Ekitike as a potential alternative.

This development has unsettled Newcastle, who are now well aware of Liverpool’s interest and the possibility of being outbid for a player they’ve long admired.

Amidst all the negotiations and speculation, Jan Aage Fjortoft revealed that Ekitike has a clear preference—he would rather play for Liverpool than Newcastle.

Speaking on ESPN FC, Fjortoft noted that although Eintracht Frankfurt are not under pressure to sell, having already secured Champions League football and earned significant income from the sales of Randal Kolo Muani and Omar Marmoush, they are still prepared to listen to serious offers.

Ekitike, valued at €100 million by the German club, knows he has options, but according to Fjortoft, he favors a move to Anfield. Despite his relaxed stance, the striker understands his future may lie in the Premier League, depending on how negotiations evolve.

For Liverpool, this is a significant advantage. Knowing that the player prefers them could make a potential deal smoother if Isak remains out of reach. Ekitike’s blend of physicality, pace, and finishing ability aligns with what Liverpool typically seek in a forward.

His productivity last season further strengthens his case—22 goals and 12 assists across all competitions is a testament to his impact.

On the other hand, Newcastle already have a top-tier striker in Alexander Isak, who enjoyed a phenomenal season with 27 goals and six assists in 42 matches. The Swedish international is among the most complete forwards in Europe today.

However, Newcastle’s pursuit of Ekitike suggests they aim to bolster their attacking options further, possibly to prepare for a more grueling European campaign or to maintain depth should other clubs test their resolve with offers for Isak.

While Ekitike’s preference leans towards Liverpool, it doesn’t entirely rule Newcastle out of contention. They remain in active discussions with Frankfurt, and the club has previously proven capable of convincing top talents to join their project.

Eddie Howe’s side continues to grow in ambition and competitiveness, making them an attractive destination in their own right.

As the saga unfolds, one thing is clear—Hugo Ekitike is on the brink of a major move that could define the next phase of his career.

Whether he ends up under the lights at Anfield or becomes part of the Newcastle revolution at St James’ Park remains to be seen, but both clubs know they are battling for a forward with the potential to shape their attacking futures.