Liverpool ‘hold talks’ with £78m Arsenal target as Hughes ‘pushes’ for seventh signing after Ekitike…

Liverpool is reportedly in discussions with the representatives of Real Madrid’s Rodrygo, as sporting director Richard Hughes is eager to finalize a deal for the Arsenal target.

The Reds have already secured the signings of Florian Wirtz, Jeremie Frimpong, Milos Kerkez, Armin Pecsi, and Freddie Woodman this summer, and they are poised to soon announce Hugo Ekitike as their new striker after reaching an agreement for his transfer from Eintracht Frankfurt.

Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano shared on X: ‘BREAKING: Hugo Ekitike to Liverpool, here we go! A deal is in place for a fee exceeding €90m for the French striker to join from Eintracht Frankfurt, potentially rising to €95m.

Ekitike has signed a six-year contract valid until June 2031; he was solely interested in a move to Liverpool. A new striker for Slot.’

Sky Germany’s Florian Plettenberg later disclosed that Ekitike has been ‘cleared to travel to Liverpool today for his medical examination.’

Plettenberg also posted on X: ‘Hugo #Ekitike has been given the green light to travel to Liverpool today for his medical.

Eintracht will receive €90 million guaranteed plus €5 million in potential add-ons. The contract extends until 2031. #LFC A complete agreement between the clubs was finalized yesterday, as exclusively reported. @SkySportDE’

The Athletic’s David Ornstein indicated that more signings are anticipated for Arne Slot’s team this summer following Ekitike’s transfer.

Ornstein noted: ‘The Anfield club has been focusing on acquiring a striker this summer, and while emotions are understandably heightened after the tragic passing of Diogo Jota earlier this month, there is a recognition that further reinforcements are necessary after the arrivals of Florian Wirtz, Jeremie Frimpong, and Milos Kerkez.

‘Additionally, there could be exits from Liverpool’s attacking lineup, as the club is receptive to offers for Darwin Nunez, and Luis Diaz has expressed his desire to leave amid interest from…

There could also be changes in Liverpool’s attacking lineup, as the club is receptive to offers for Darwin Nunez, while Luis Diaz has expressed his wish to depart amid interest from Bayern Munich and Barcelona.

One potential addition could be Rodrygo, as TBR Football reports that Liverpool have ‘engaged in discussions with his representatives following his return from the Club World Cup.’

The Brazilian’s limited participation in that tournament – he played only 92 minutes over five matches – has sparked considerable speculation regarding his future.

The report indicates that despite Arsenal’s interest in the winger, Liverpool have ‘intensified their efforts to acquire the Brazilian forward.’

Hughes is reportedly ‘very eager to bring Rodrygo to Anfield’ and is ‘currently investigating what a potential deal might entail after talks with the player’s representatives.’

Providing further details on Liverpool’s interest in Rodrygo, transfer expert Graeme Bailey stated: ‘Rodrygo is an intriguing player and is prepared to leave Real Madrid.

‘It is likely he could be moving to England, as he understands that his chances will be limited under Alonso’s management.

‘Arsenal have shown interest in Rodrygo and appreciate his talent, and now Liverpool has initiated discussions – they are fond of the Brazilian and will keep pursuing a deal.

‘Much will hinge on Real’s asking price, but Liverpool, similar to Arsenal, have been reassured that their demands will not be excessive.

‘Real are willing to sell Rodrygo and are expected to set a reasonable price.’