Liverpool have reached a preliminary agreement to sign Hugo Ekitike from Eintracht Frankfurt, according to David Ornstein of The Athletic, with final details expected to be finalized soon.
The French forward, who scored 22 goals and provided 12 assists across all competitions last season, is set to be a key addition to Liverpool’s attack.
Ekitike joined Frankfurt from Paris Saint-Germain for just €17.5 million and is now poised to become their record sale, surpassing the €95 million received for Randal Kolo Muani. This fee could increase if performance-related add-ons are met.
Personal terms are not expected to be an issue, and after Newcastle United had a €75 million offer rejected, Liverpool’s recruitment team has clearly acted swiftly.
Liverpool have shifted focus to Ekitike after negotiations for Alexander Isak stalled despite being willing to pay up to £120 million.
Ekitike is considered one of the most well-rounded young forwards in the Bundesliga. His impressive stats include 34 goal contributions in one season, inclusion in the Bundesliga team of the year, and strong performances in Europe, including a memorable goal against Tottenham in the Europa League.
His pace, aerial ability, creativity, and counter-attacking threat provide manager Arne Slot with various tactical options upfront.
With Luis Diaz expressing a desire to leave amid interest from Bayern Munich and Barcelona, and Darwin Nunez linked with a potential exit, bringing in a dynamic forward like Ekitike becomes increasingly important.
Ekitike initially joined Frankfurt on loan in early 2024 and has yet to make his senior debut for France but is widely expected to break through soon.
At 23 years old and with plenty of potential for growth, Ekitike could become one of the most exciting long-term signings of the Slot era.
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