Liverpool sign striker Ekitike for initial £69m
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Liverpool secure French striker Hugo Ekitike in a £69m move, boosting summer spending past £250m.
Liverpool Sign Hugo Ekitike for £69m in Major Summer Transfer
Liverpool Strengthen Squad with Ekitike Transfer
Liverpool Football Club have officially signed French striker Hugo Ekitike from Eintracht Frankfurt for an initial fee of £69 million. The move is subject to international clearance, but all other formalities, including a medical and personal terms, have been completed. Ekitike, 23, is expected to join the club’s pre-season tour of Asia later this week.
Transfer Deal Worth Up to £79 Million
The full value of the transfer deal could rise to £79 million, depending on performance-based add-ons. Frankfurt accepted the terms earlier this week, making this one of Liverpool’s most expensive signings. With this acquisition, Liverpool’s total summer spending now surpasses £250 million.
Other Major Signings This Summer
Hugo Ekitike joins a long list of new arrivals at Anfield. The club previously signed German midfielder Florian Wirtz for a potential British record fee of £116 million. In addition, defenders Milos Kerkez and Jeremie Frimpong were acquired for a combined £70 million. The club’s management appears focused on rebuilding and enhancing squad depth following a season of mixed performances.
Ekitike’s Record in the Bundesliga
Ekitike had an impressive 2024-25 season with Frankfurt, netting 15 goals and providing eight assists in 31 starts. Only five players outscored him in the Bundesliga last season, and he led the league with 117 shots on goal. These stats reflect not only his goal-scoring instinct but also his proactive approach in attack.
Frankfurt’s Praise for Ekitike
Frankfurt’s sporting director Markus Krosche praised Ekitike’s development and contribution to the team. “Hugo has developed tremendously in his one and a half years with us,” said Krosche. “He’s been a true asset to our team and the entire club both on and off the pitch. We are delighted that he can now take the next step a step he has earned through his performances.”
From PSG to Redemption at Frankfurt
Ekitike’s journey hasn’t been without challenges. After rising through the ranks at Reims, he joined Paris Saint Germain, where he struggled to break into a star-studded lineup. Frankfurt offered him a fresh start when they brought him in on loan in early 2024. The move turned permanent a year later, and under manager Dino Toppmoller, Ekitike flourished both as a lone striker and in attacking partnerships.
Tactical Adaptability and Versatility
One of Ekitike’s standout traits is his tactical flexibility. He’s comfortable playing in various attacking roles, either as a solo forward or in tandem with others. During the first half of last season, he formed a lethal partnership with Omar Marmoush. After Marmoush’s departure to Manchester City for £63 million, Frankfurt restructured their attack around Ekitike, highlighting his ability to adapt to different systems.
High Work Rate and Game Intelligence
Beyond his goal contributions, Ekitike is recognized for his intelligent movement and pressing ability. Bundesliga analyst Constantin Eckner notes that while Ekitike isn’t the fastest striker, his off-the-ball movement and tactical understanding make him highly effective. He often interchanges positions with teammates and supports both high and midfield pressing strategies.
Strengths and Weaknesses in His Game
Football tactics writer Alex Keble emphasizes Ekitike’s all-round ability. He was fifth in the Bundesliga for goal involvements and led all forwards in open-play chance creation, making him a creative force. However, his finishing still needs refinement. With a conversion rate of just 12.8%, he underperformed his expected goals (xG) by 6.6 a gap larger than any other player in Europe’s top five leagues.
Liverpool’s Bet on Potential and Flair
Despite minor concerns, Ekitike’s creativity, movement, and attacking flair make him an exciting addition to Liverpool. His profile closely resembles that of Alexander Isak, but with more flair and dribbling confidence. If polished under Jürgen Klopp’s coaching staff, Ekitike could become a vital long-term asset for the Reds.
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