Report: Reds Lead Race for French Striker Having “Breakthrough Season” | OneFootball

Liverpool Scouts Track Frankfurt’s Ekitike

As the summer transfer window looms, Liverpool’s recruitment team appears to be laying the groundwork for what could be a major attacking reshuffle. According to a recent report from CaughtOffside, Eintracht Frankfurt striker Hugo Ekitike has emerged as a serious target for the Reds.

Ekitike, 22, has enjoyed a breakthrough season in the Bundesliga and across Europe, tallying 21 goals and eight assists in all competitions. After a difficult spell at Paris Saint-Germain, where he failed to break through consistently, he now seems to be living up to the promise he first showed at Stade de Reims.

“Sources close to the situation have informed CaughtOffside that Liverpool scouts were present to watch Ekitike as he scored in an impressive performance away to Tottenham in the Europa League last week.” That statement alone should raise eyebrows — Liverpool don’t send scouts to midweek European ties without serious intent.

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Big Fee, Big Potential

The report goes on to note that Ekitike would likely cost at least €85m, a fee that speaks volumes about how far the young Frenchman has come in the space of a season. That valuation would put him amongst Liverpool’s highest-ever transfers, but the club’s interest seems to match the price tag.

“Sources are adamant that Liverpool are ‘seriously considering’ making a move for the 22-year-old.” With Darwin Nunez’s future under increasing scrutiny, the writing may be on the wall. Nunez has shown flashes of brilliance but remains a frustratingly inconsistent figure. Ekitike’s numbers this season, particularly in European competition, paint a more composed picture of a forward who’s hitting form at the right time.

Arsenal Also in the Mix

It’s not just Liverpool circling. CaughtOffside reports that Arsenal are also monitoring Ekitike, placing him alongside other top names like Viktor Gyokeres and Benjamin Sesko in their shortlist. “CaughtOffside also understands that Ekitike is one of the names on Arsenal’s list this summer…”

However, the Gunners’ situation seems far less settled. “It is not clear, however, if the Gunners have settled on a priority target in that position yet, whereas LFC seem increasingly keen on making Ekitike their man to replace Darwin Nunez.”

In essence, while Arsenal deliberate, Liverpool appear to be accelerating.

Slot’s Arrival a Game Changer

It’s impossible to ignore the impact Arne Slot’s appointment has had on Liverpool’s transfer strategy. The Dutchman brings with him a high-tempo, attacking style that could suit Ekitike’s profile perfectly. Known for his intelligent movement, pace, and ability to stretch defences, the Frenchman could be moulded into the kind of dynamic forward Slot craves.

Ekitike’s failed spell at PSG may serve as both a cautionary tale and a motivator. At Frankfurt, he’s matured. He’s improved his link-up play, become more clinical, and — perhaps most importantly — delivered consistently in big games.

If Liverpool are going to invest upwards of €85m, they’re clearly betting that the Ekitike we’re seeing now is closer to the finished product than the raw prospect of two years ago.

Conclusion: Ekitike Deal Signals New Era at Anfield

In many ways, this potential move feels like a statement — not just about replacing Nunez, but about the kind of future Liverpool want to build under Arne Slot. Young, hungry, technically sharp players who can grow into elite-level roles.

Ekitike ticks all those boxes. He’s not just a stopgap; he could be a foundational piece for the next five to seven years. The numbers are encouraging. The style fits. The ambition is mutual.

Whether the deal happens or not, this story — as first reported by CaughtOffside — reveals much about the direction Liverpool are heading. Ekitike is more than just a name on a list; he might just be the future face of Liverpool’s frontline.