Hugo Ekitike rejected approaches from Man Utd and Newcastle (Picture: Getty)Hugo Ekitike has explained why he rejected a transfer approach from Manchester United before agreeing to join Liverpool. In the days before Ekitike joined Liverpool, both Manchester United and Newcastle United made last-minute bids to hijack the deal. Get personalised updates on Manchester United every day Wake up to find news on your club in your inbox every morning with Metro’s Football Newsletter. Asked why he chose Liverpool amid interest from Man United and Newcastle, Ekitike said: ‘Liverpool are Premier League champions, with great players and great history. Discussing Isak’s arrival from Newcastle United, Ekitike said: ‘I think it’s good with players in such a big club.