Newcastle United initially submitted a club-record bid close to £70 million (€75 million) for Eintracht Frankfurt striker Hugo Ekitike, a 23-year-old forward and France youth international. Eintracht Frankfurt rejected this offer, reportedly seeking a fee closer to Ekitike's £86 million release clause. Newcastle pursued the transfer aggressively, aiming to complete a deal with a total package reportedly rising to €100 million, but talks stalled. Concurrently, Liverpool expressed strong interest in Newcastle's 25-year-old striker Alexander Isak, reportedly prepared to offer around £120 million. Newcastle maintained a firm stance that Isak was not for sale, prompting Liverpool to turn their focus to Ekitike. Liverpool initiated contact with Eintracht Frankfurt and Ekitike's camp, advancing negotiations for a transfer valued at over €80 million. Ekitike has agreed to personal terms with Liverpool on a six-year contract and has made it clear he prefers a move to Anfield, reportedly rejecting other offers including from Manchester United. Liverpool submitted an official bid to Eintracht Frankfurt for Ekitike, which was initially rejected as the German club seeks a higher fee. Negotiations between Liverpool and Eintracht Frankfurt continue, with Liverpool preparing a second offer. Newcastle has stepped back from the pursuit of Ekitike, effectively ceding the transfer to Liverpool, who are now the frontrunners for the striker's signature.