Liverpool to ‘Open Talks’ to Sign £70million Striker This Summer – Report | OneFootball

Liverpool Eye Hugo Ekitike as Darwin Nunez Exit Looms

Liverpool are gearing up for another exciting transfer window as they prepare to enter negotiations for Eintracht Frankfurt striker Hugo Ekitike, Give Me Sport reports. The reigning Premier League champions, still processing the emotional aftermath of Diogo Jota’s tragic passing, are determined to strengthen their squad and honour his memory with further silverware this season.

Ekitike on Liverpool’s Radar

According to Give Me Sport, intermediaries have indicated that Liverpool are “ready to open talks over a deal for Ekitike,” with Eintracht Frankfurt confident they will secure their full £86 million asking price. Ekitike, who impressed during the 2024/25 Bundesliga season, has caught the eye of Arne Slot, who is seeking to build on a title-winning debut season at Anfield.

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Importantly, Liverpool appear to have a clear run at the French forward, as domestic rivals Manchester United, Arsenal and Chelsea have opted not to engage in a bidding war. This leaves Slot and the recruitment team with a golden opportunity to move decisively, though significant financial planning will be necessary.

Nunez Departure Paves Way

However, Liverpool’s pursuit of Ekitike hinges on the likely departure of Darwin Nunez. With Ekitike under contract until 2029 and reportedly earning over £80,000 per week when bonuses are activated, the Reds must free up space on both the wage bill and in the squad. Give Me Sport highlights that “at least one big-name exit will go ahead before forking out another substantial fee” following the arrivals of Florian Wirtz, Milos Kerkez, Jeremie Frimpong, Armin Pecsi and Freddie Woodman.

Nunez’s time at Anfield has been marked by inconsistency, and while his raw talent is undeniable, the chance to refresh the forward line with a player like Ekitike may be seen as essential to keeping Liverpool at the top.

Slot’s Vision for the Future

Slot has proven himself a masterful tactician, steering Liverpool to Premier League glory in his first season. Now, the Dutchman seems intent on adding younger, technically gifted players to his squad. Ekitike, a France U21 international with five caps, offers pace, agility and clinical finishing — qualities that would perfectly complement Liverpool’s dynamic attacking style.

Despite Eintracht Frankfurt’s tough stance, Liverpool’s genuine interest suggests they are prepared to make a significant investment. As Give Me Sport puts it, “there is hope that Liverpool will up the ante by formally showing their hand in the coming days.”

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

From a Liverpool fan’s perspective, this move sparks genuine excitement. Hugo Ekitike is the sort of player who fits seamlessly into Arne Slot’s vision — young, hungry and ready to make his mark on the biggest stage.

Many fans have grown frustrated with Darwin Nunez’s inconsistency in front of goal, despite his tireless running and flashes of brilliance. Offloading him to make room for Ekitike feels like a bold but necessary step. Imagine an attack featuring Ekitike alongside Mohamed Salah, Luis Diaz and Florian Wirtz, with Frimpong providing width from full-back — it’s a mouth-watering prospect.

The wider feeling among the Anfield faithful is one of trust in Slot. After all, he’s just delivered the Premier League title in his debut season — why doubt his judgment now? As one supporter put it online, “If Slot wants Ekitike, then I’m all in.” This is a club eager to build something special, not just to compete but to dominate, and Ekitike could be the next key piece of that puzzle.