Should I risk seeing my male friend

I would take his comment about wanting to give you a hug as a compliment.

Awww. I think its his way of saying he likes you. As you said meet up outside somewhere and do the elbow greet right off the bat, he will get the message and will probably laugh about it, good luck.

Watch out, watch out, there's a virus about......
I am not even hugging my friends yet. I would certainly NOT hug a stranger....

The problem is, you don’t know where he’s been! For all you know he’s one of those people who think the whole covid rules don’t apply to them and has been out with his mates, he could even be what they call a super spreader who shows no symptoms, or he might be just a very nice guy. I’m afraid all the usual rules about dating have been thrown out of the window, and you can’t get to know someone on Skype and a couple of dates, so you don’t REALLY know this person at all. And to say he might not be able to resist giving you a hug is a bit of a red flag. Make it plain you’re not going to hug and stay your distance. If he really likes you, he will respect your boundaries and be willing to wait.

If you are both living on your own and neither of you are having contact with anyone else and are observing the guidelines then you are allowed to meet up outdoors if you want. You do need to make it clear whether
his suggestion of hugging is acceptable. As long as you are both following the guidelines an outdoor meet up is low risk. It sounds like you are keen to develop the relationship, so I would meet up in a park for a walk, but keep my distance until you are sure about the risks. The virus is going to be here for a long while, and you could be in for a lonely time ahead if you are not seeing anyone at all.
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I wouldn't meet up, he should respect you and the guidelines. Sounds too intense to me. Tread carefully and on your terms.