Hugo Ekitike was dropped from Eintracht Frankfurt's Start XI for the pre-season-friendly for Saturday against FSV Frankfurt in the midst of increasing speculation about a possible summer movement to Liverpool.
As reported earlier this week by Mail Sport, the Reds of Arne Slot have been attempted to sign the French Under-21 International under 21, who is said to have a move to Anfield.
Newcastle United had recently rejected an £ 70 million offer for Ekitike, because the £ 16 million was short of his release clause.
Liverpool has also been associated with interest in Alexander Isak, Yoane Wissa, Ollie Watkins and Victor Osimhen this summer, but Ekitike, 22, now seems to be the most likely candidate to strengthen the attack of the Premier League champions.
Ekitike scored 22 goals in 48 games for Frankfurt last season and now seems to be rid of the Bundesliga outfit.
After Ekitike was left on the bench for the friendly Saturday, the French journalist Fabrice Hawkins stated via X (formerly Twitter) that the striker 'came closer to Liverpool' and that he had already agreed on a contract until 2031.
Hawkins added that Ekitike would stay on the couch because the negotiations were going on, with a 'last green light that will soon expect'.
More to follow.