Premier League champions Liverpool are preparing to challenge Chelsea in the race to sign Frankfurt striker Hugo Ekitike in a potential £84 million deal, with preliminary discussions already underway.

Liverpool manager Arne Slot is reportedly an admirer of the 22-year-old French forward, who has enjoyed a breakthrough season in the Bundesliga after leaving Paris Saint-Germain.

Ekitike has just completed his most prolific campaign to date, surpassing the 20-goal mark for the first time in his career, attracting attention from several top European clubs.

The Reds are moving swiftly in the transfer market following their Premier League triumph. They are reportedly close to securing Jeremie Frimpong from Bayer Leverkusen and remain in negotiations for his teammate Florian Wirtz in a potential deal exceeding £100 million.

According to Sky Germany, Chelsea have also expressed interest in Ekitike. While Frankfurt have not yet received a formal offer for their star striker, the club's sporting director Markus Krosche has indicated they would be open to his departure.

"We will allow players to leave if they feel they've outgrown the environment," Krosche stated, suggesting Frankfurt would not stand in Ekitike's way should a suitable offer arrive from either Premier League club.

The striker's valuation of £84 million reflects his rapid development since leaving PSG, where he struggled to establish himself before finding form in Germany.

Liverpool's interest in Ekitike comes as they look to strengthen their attacking options ahead of the 2025/26 season, with Slot keen to build on the success of his first campaign at Anfield.