Liverpool Nears £79m Hugo Ekitike Signing From Eintracht Frankfurt

Liverpool is close to finalizing a high-profile signing of striker Hugo Ekitike from Eintracht Frankfurt for a deal reportedly worth up to £79 million, with the player agreeing to a six-year contract. The club has shifted focus to Ekitike after their preferred target, Newcastle's Alexander Isak, remained unavailable due to Newcastle's refusal to sell. Ekitike is seen as a promising young striker with a playing style similar to Isak, combining speed, technical skill, and goal-scoring ability, having scored 22 goals and provided 12 assists in the 2024-25 season. This signing is part of Liverpool's significant summer investment exceeding £200 million, which also includes record deals for Florian Wirtz and other key players, aimed at maintaining their Premier League dominance under coach Arne Slot. Meanwhile, Liverpool faces uncertainty over winger Luis Diaz, who is seeking a pay raise Liverpool is unwilling to grant and is attracting interest from Bayern Munich and other clubs, potentially necessitating a replacement. Ekitike's arrival could help fill gaps in the attack as Liverpool prepares for the new season, signaling a strategic squad refresh following last season's title win.