Thierry Henry reportedly said Frankfurt striker Hugo Ekitike “does not do the basics very well” as Liverpool close in on their target. Having been given a firm no to Alexandar Isak’s availability, Liverpool have instead targeted Ekitike and a deal for the 23-year-old is said to be close to completion.

Eintracht Frankfurt forward Hugo Ekitike wants to join Liverpool; the Reds are preparing an official offer and the player agreed to the move in principle; Liverpool showed interest in Ekitike after be

Liverpool have shoved Newcastle aside and agreed personal terms with Hugo Ekitike, Manchester United have made a third offer for Bryan Mbeumo and Arsenal are closing in on Viktor Gyokeres

What the Ek? It is precisely zero surprise to see that while everyone else has ignored the obviously daft suggestion that Hugo Ekitike has handed in a transfer request to ‘force through’ a move which is going to happen anyway, a handful of certain publications are not only willing but entirely desperate to disregard any such red flags.

According to Sport Bild, Frankfurt are holding out for a higher fee, but Liverpool’s strong relationship with the Bundesliga club may smooth negotiations. Ekitike has reportedly expressed his desire to join the Reds and is now awaiting a club-to-club agreement.

Hugo Ekitike has reportedly handed in a transfer request to try and force a move to Liverpool. Newcastle United were locked in negotiations with Eintracht Frankfurt for the striker as recently as yesterday.