Journalist: Liverpool Could Sign Bundesliga Striker after Darwin Nunez Sale | OneFootball

Liverpool’s Ekitike Interest Tied to Potential Nunez Exit

Liverpool’s long-standing interest in Hugo Ekitike has resurfaced, but with a familiar caveat — finances. According to Christian Falk’s update in The Daily Briefing, Liverpool are among three Premier League clubs tracking the Eintracht Frankfurt striker, alongside Chelsea and Manchester United.

The Frenchman enjoyed a standout 2024/25 campaign in Germany, netting 22 goals and assisting 12 times in 48 matches. At 22, he fits Liverpool’s recent recruitment strategy of targeting young, high-upside talent from Europe’s top five leagues.

But there’s a catch. “Liverpool could make a move once they have sold Darwin Nunez,” Falk reported, underlining how the Reds’ ability to act hinges on outgoing movement. Frankfurt’s €100 million valuation currently presents a non-starter for Liverpool unless they recoup funds elsewhere.

United, it’s believed, are the only club to have formally opened dialogue with Frankfurt, with Falk adding, “There have been no negotiations or even an offer as things currently stand” from Liverpool.

Nunez Situation Reaches Crossroads

Darwin Nunez’s Anfield career appears to be reaching a natural conclusion. Interest has emerged from both Napoli and the Saudi Pro League, and the Uruguayan seems unlikely to play a central role under Arne Slot moving forward.

Photo: IMAGO

Nunez managed just five Premier League goals last season and finished with 40 goals and 22 assists from 143 total games since arriving in 2022. While those raw numbers reflect a certain level of contribution, his form and confidence fluctuated too often for a side chasing domestic and European titles.

A significant factor appears to be Slot’s lack of trust in the No.9. With Liverpool already committing £116 million to Florian Wirtz, and strengthening in other areas, the forward line now looks primed for another shake-up.

Bundesliga Links Run Deep

It’s no secret Arne Slot has looked to the Bundesliga for solutions in his first summer at the helm. The arrivals of Jeremie Frimpong and Florian Wirtz hint at a clear appreciation for the German top flight’s tactical edge and intensity — attributes Ekitike showcased throughout Frankfurt’s season.

Though no move is imminent, Liverpool’s renewed interest in Ekitike speaks to the club’s future vision. Younger, flexible attackers who can both lead the line and press aggressively are central to the system Slot wants to embed.

Still, the cost remains a sticking point. Frankfurt’s €100 million demand for a player with only one standout season is steep, even in today’s inflated market.

Attack Faces More Reshuffle

Luis Diaz’s future also remains uncertain amid persistent interest from elsewhere. Should both Diaz and Nunez depart, Liverpool would face a rapid transformation in attack within a single window.

The investment in Wirtz suggests Liverpool are preparing for such a transition, shifting towards more technical, multifunctional forwards who thrive in fluid systems. Ekitike could be the next piece — but only if space, and budget, is made available.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

From a Liverpool fan’s perspective, this report feels like another step towards closure for Darwin Nunez’s Anfield chapter. While no one doubts his desire or explosive potential, the consistency just hasn’t materialised, and with Arne Slot already making bold decisions, a clean break might suit both sides.

The interest in Hugo Ekitike makes sense. He’s young, confident and fresh off a prolific season in a competitive league. The price tag is hefty, but if Nunez departs for a similar fee, it’s a swap that could revitalise our forward line.

It’s also telling that Slot has prioritised Bundesliga talent. Wirtz and Frimpong weren’t cheap, and this points to a manager willing to reshape the side in his vision quickly. That should excite fans — especially after a title-winning debut season.

But let’s be realistic. Spending €100 million on another forward only works if we streamline first. If we do lose both Nunez and Diaz, then Ekitike could be a smart, future-proof signing who fits the tempo and press Liverpool fans love.

Still, we’ve been here before with high expectations. Should we act, it’s crucial we get this one right.