Journalist Reveals the Inside Story of Hugo Ekitike’s Move to Liverpool | OneFootball

Hugo Ekitike: Liverpool’s Statement of Intent

Liverpool’s £69million acquisition of Hugo Ekitike from Eintracht Frankfurt signals more than just another big-money addition. As Seb Stafford Bloor explained in a recent discussion with Hari Sethi for Anfield Index, the Reds have been pursuing the French forward for some time, and this transfer is the product of long-term planning rather than opportunism.

“Liverpool have tracked Ekitike since his time at Reims back in 2021/22,” said Stafford Bloor. “It’s worth saying that Ekitike has always been Liverpool’s number one target.” Despite interest from top Premier League rivals such as Chelsea, Arsenal, Manchester United and Newcastle, Liverpool’s persistence has paid off. While talks initially aimed to be kept low-key, the public nature of the negotiations seemed to prompt a quicker resolution. “Initially, Liverpool wanted to get the deal done quietly and without too much publicity, but that didn’t happen and it seemed to alert Liverpool.”

Photo: IMAGO

A Tactical Fit That Solves a Long-Standing Issue

Arne Slot’s first season at Anfield delivered the Premier League title and re-established Liverpool as a dominant force. Now preparing for his second campaign, Slot has been decisive in shaping his squad. Ekitike becomes the fifth major arrival of the summer, joining Giorgi Mamardashvili, Jeremie Frimpong, Milos Kerkez and Florian Wirtz.

Ekitike’s arrival appears to directly address a long-standing gap in the side. “There’s been an absence of a number nine and Ekitike is the one they see as the solution,” Stafford Bloor noted. His versatility, experience and youth make him a unique profile. “He’s a data-led signing. A perfect combination of being really talented, under 24, but also has so much experience.”

Indeed, few players his age have featured so consistently in Ligue 1, the Bundesliga, Europa League and Champions League. “He has already played in Ligue 1, Bundesliga, Europa League and Champions League and will inevitably play for France,” added Stafford Bloor.

Why Liverpool Chose Ekitike Over Isak

Liverpool have held an interest in Alexander Isak this summer and continue to do so. Yet the club’s clear preference for Ekitike suggests a level of conviction that speaks volumes. “There has been an expression of interest in Alexander Isak, but they’ve always thought that Ekitike is the one for them.”

Photo: IMAGO

The difference may lie in tactical fit and long-term potential. “Darwin Nunez hasn’t really been a great fit tactically but he’s an interesting player because he can be a big success elsewhere,” Stafford Bloor observed. Ekitike’s game, however, aligns more naturally with what Slot wants from his central striker — a fluid yet physical forward who can press, drop deep and attack the box.

No Bargain, But a Calculated Gamble

While the £69million price tag might raise eyebrows, Stafford Bloor was clear that Frankfurt had no pressure to sell. “There was no financial pressure on Frankfurt to sell him. It was clear that it was going to take a bid close to £84million to sign him.” That Liverpool managed to secure the deal for less could be seen as a reflection of their strategic patience and Ekitike’s desire to move to Anfield.

Crucially, this wasn’t a typical Frankfurt sale. “Eintracht Frankfurt usually sell when they think a player has reached their limit, but that’s not what happened with Ekitike.” That in itself is an encouraging sign.

This is a move rooted in data, vision and belief in the manager’s system. With Slot now aiming to defend his title and make a serious Champions League push, Ekitike could be the striker who brings further evolution to an already resurgent Liverpool.