Journalist: Liverpool in ‘Concrete Talks’ with French Striker as Three Forwards Could Leave | OneFootball

Three Liverpool Forwards Could Leave as Striker Search Continues

The transfer rumour mill is, as ever, grinding away with fervent intensity, and for Liverpool, the focus appears to be firmly on the attacking third. As reported by Sky Germany’s Florian Plettenberg, the Reds are actively engaged in their pursuit of a new number nine, a search that appears to be intrinsically linked to potential departures from the current squad. It’s a fascinating insight into the intricate dance of squad building, where incomings are often predicated on outgoings.

Photo: IMAGO

Striker Targets Evolve

Liverpool’s hunt for a forward has seen a few names surface. Alexander Isak, a player of considerable quality, seems to be off the table, with Newcastle United’s Champions League qualification strengthening their resolve to retain key assets.

Another name previously linked, Benjamin Sesko, appears to have seen Liverpool’s interest cool, particularly with Arsenal reportedly stepping up their pursuit. The ebb and flow of these sagas are a constant feature of the transfer window, and it’s a testament to the fluid nature of targets in modern football.

Ekitike Emerges as a Potential Frontrunner

The spotlight now appears to be firmly on Hugo Ekitike. Initially, Chelsea seemed to be in the driving seat for the Eintracht Frankfurt striker, especially with the Club World Cup looming. However, the Blues’ reluctance to meet Leipzig’s reported €100m asking price has presented a significant opportunity for Liverpool.

As Plettenberg highlighted, “No agreement yet between Hugo Ekitike and Chelsea. Eintracht Frankfurt have also not received an official offer. A participation in the Club World Cup is currently ruled out. Unclear how things will progress with Chelsea. A deal in the next transfer window is still possible, but Liverpool remain in the race and have also held concrete talks with the player’s camp.” This clarity from Plettenberg is crucial, confirming Liverpool’s continued and indeed “concrete” interest in the young forward.

Trio Tipped for Departures

Perhaps the most impactful revelation from Plettenberg’s report concerns the potential exits. He states that three current Liverpool stars are “candidates to leave” this summer: Darwin Nunez, Diogo Jota, and Federico Chiesa. The reasoning behind these potential moves is varied and equally compelling.

Nunez, the Uruguayan international, is reportedly attracting attention from Saudi Pro League clubs. The allure of the Middle East and its financial power is a growing factor in the European transfer market, and it’s clear that Nunez could be a significant target for clubs looking to bolster their ranks with established Premier League talent.

Meanwhile, Federico Chiesa is “reportedly keen to return to Italy”. This desire for a homecoming, despite a relatively short stint at Anfield, suggests a personal preference that could ultimately dictate his next move. The pull of familiar surroundings and domestic football is a powerful force for many players.

Photo: IMAGO

The situation with Diogo Jota is perhaps the most intriguing. Plettenberg suggests there has been “little serious interest” in the Portuguese forward. However, it’s believed that Arne Slot, the manager who led Liverpool to a Premier League title in his debut season, is “keen on moving on from him, considering his injury record.” This underlines the managerial influence on squad decisions and the importance of player availability in Slot’s vision for the team. Injuries have indeed plagued Jota’s time at Anfield, and a fresh start for both player and club could be on the cards.

The coming weeks promise to be pivotal for Liverpool’s attacking reshape. The pursuit of a new striker and the potential departures of key forwards will undoubtedly dominate the headlines as the summer transfer window truly gets into full swing.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

This report from Florian Plettenberg certainly provides plenty of food for thought for any Liverpool supporter. The idea of Nunez, Jota, and Chiesa all potentially moving on is a significant shift in the attacking landscape at Anfield. On the one hand, it’s a testament to Arne Slot’s clear vision and willingness to make decisive calls, even on established players. If he believes Jota’s injury record is too much of a risk, then moving him on, despite his obvious talent when fit, makes complete sense from a squad reliability perspective. The Premier League title win in Slot’s debut season speaks volumes about his judgement, so there’s certainly trust in his decisions.

Nunez’s potential move to Saudi Arabia is less surprising. While he’s shown glimpses of brilliance, the consistency hasn’t always been there, and if a substantial offer comes in, it could be a shrewd piece of business to reinvest those funds. Similarly, Chiesa’s desire to return to Italy, if true, means his heart isn’t fully in it, and it’s better for all parties to part ways amicably.

The focus on Hugo Ekitike is exciting. Given Chelsea’s hesitations, Liverpool being firmly in the race, and having held “concrete talks,” is a positive sign. The prospect of bringing in a fresh, hungry striker to lead the line under Slot’s dynamic system is genuinely thrilling. It shows that the club is not resting on its laurels after winning the league, but instead looking to build and evolve. The notion of Jeremie Frimpong, Armin Pecsi, Florian Wirtz, and Milos Kerkez potentially joining the club as well signals a proactive and ambitious transfer strategy. It’s an exciting time to be a Red, with new faces and a clear direction under Slot.