Lineker: Ekitike’s rise prompts debate on Liverpool transfer plans | OneFootball

Ekitike delivers on debut as Liverpool overcome Bournemouth

Liverpool opened their Premier League title defence with a 4-2 win over Bournemouth at Anfield, though it was far from straightforward. The champions had to withstand a spirited fightback from the visitors, but a late Federico Chiesa strike and Mohamed Salah’s stoppage-time goal secured the points.

For much of the evening, however, attention centred on Hugo Ekitike. The French striker, who scored in the Community Shield the previous weekend, made a strong impression on his Premier League debut and has quickly become a focal point of discussion among pundits.

Lineker and Shearer praise Frenchman’s impact

On the Rest is Football podcast, Gary Lineker and Alan Shearer reflected on the contrasting fortunes of strikers across the division. While Joao Pedro, Viktor Gyökeres and Benjamin Šeško all struggled to leave their mark in opening fixtures, Ekitike’s performance stood apart.

Lineker remarked:

Shearer added further detail, highlighting the forward’s intelligence and physicality:

Comparisons to Suarez and early promise

Ekitike has quickly drawn comparisons to Luis Suárez, with his sharp movement and relentless pressing striking a chord with Liverpool supporters. His goal against Bournemouth was his second in as many competitive starts, building on his early strike in the Community Shield.

Midfielder Ryan Gravenberch described him as “quality” after the match, and it is increasingly evident that the 22-year-old has settled swiftly into Arne Slot’s system. Alongside Cody Gakpo, he formed an effective partnership, contributing to Liverpool’s attacking fluency.

Isak pursuit raises big question

Liverpool’s pursuit of Newcastle United’s Alexander Isak has been a major talking point this summer. The Swedish international would command a significant fee, potentially a record-breaking sum, but the form of Ekitike complicates the decision.

Supporters may crave the marquee signing, yet there is a growing argument that investing heavily in another centre forward could hinder the development of a player already showing he can lead the line. With Virgil van Dijk reminding post-match that defensive reinforcements remain a priority, the club’s transfer focus may need to shift.

For Slot, the balancing act is delicate. Ekitike’s early impact suggests he is not merely an understudy but a genuine contender to be the main striker at Anfield. Whether Liverpool continue to press for Isak or back their new arrival may define the remainder of the window.