Forward-moving Reds are clicking into gear

AND we're off. After weeks of keeping their powder dry regards strengthening forward options, this week has seen Liverpool finally make their move.

- By IAN DOYLE

But anybody who believes the ongoing pursuit of Eintracht Frankfurt striker Hugo Ekitike marks the endgame for the Reds is almost certain to be very much mistaken.

Instead, the frontline merry-go-round is only now beginning to pick up speed.

Liverpool have opened talks with Frankfurt over a deal for Ekitike, having already been given the green light to hold negotiations in which personal terms have been agreed with the player over a long-term contract.

The Bundesliga side turned down an offer of €80m (£69.4m) for Ekitike earlier this week from Newcastle United, who have subsequently given up their chase for the 23-year-old.

An offer nearer €100m (£86.7m) would persuade Frankfurt to part with their most prized possession, who has become one of the most in-demand young forwards in Europe over the last 12 months.

But even if a deal for Ekitike is reached, the state of flux in Liverpool's attack remains - both for the present and the future.