Romano: Liverpool shortlist forward as Hughes waits on key Anfield exit | OneFootball

Liverpool’s Forward Focus: Talks Continue for Ekitike as Slot Reshapes Attack

Hughes and Slot Continue Squad Restructure

Liverpool’s summer strategy continues to take shape under head coach Arne Slot, with transfer chief Richard Hughes focused on addressing key positions. According to Fabrizio Romano, talks are ongoing over the potential signing of Hugo Ekitike, a forward long admired by the club’s recruitment staff.

Before making any firm commitment in the final third, the club’s current priority is understood to be a new centre-back, most likely to offset the expected departure of Jarell Quansah. Yet the plan to recruit a new No.9 remains active.

Romano confirmed Liverpool’s interest via his YouTube channel, stating:“Many of you are asking me about Hugo Ekitike… Liverpool are discussing the possibility to add Hugo Ekitike to their squad… this is not a deal happening today or tomorrow so need to be patient, need to understand when this deal could evolve but Ekitike is one of the names on the list at Liverpool.”

Photo IMAGO

Ekitike, 23, is currently available following a difficult spell at Paris Saint-Germain, but his raw talent and early promise at Reims have kept him on the radar of Europe’s elite.

Nunez Exit Paves Way for New Attacker

Liverpool’s decision to move on from Darwin Nunez marks a significant turning point in their attack. Despite his work rate and explosive moments, Nunez never fully clicked within the team’s tactical framework. Romano offered insight into his likely exit:

“Liverpool are waiting to understand what happens with Darwin Nunez… conversations continue with Napoli.”

Photo: IMAGO

Napoli’s interest, while also reportedly involving talks for Lorenzo Lucca, could facilitate Liverpool’s plans to clear space and wages for a new forward addition.

It is believed that Liverpool are waiting to offload Nunez before pushing ahead with their pursuit of a replacement. While nothing has been finalised, Napoli remain in the picture and a deal appears increasingly likely.

Ekitike, Isak or Osimhen: Liverpool’s Options

While Hugo Ekitike is described as “one of the names” on the list, he is by no means the only target. Liverpool are also monitoring high-profile options.

Newcastle United’s Alexander Isak has long been admired at Anfield. However, there is little encouragement from St. James’ Park that they are willing to sell, and the size of any potential deal would likely prove prohibitive.

Photo: IMAGO

Victor Osimhen presents another intriguing alternative. The Nigerian striker is available, with Napoli open to offers, yet his wage demands have reportedly raised internal questions about value for money. Liverpool’s carefully structured wage hierarchy has previously ruled out such high-spending ventures unless the player’s impact is deemed transformative.

Photo: IMAGO

That leaves Ekitike, whose age, profile and versatility suit Liverpool’s evolving tactical approach. His ability to play across the front line, and particularly as a central striker in a system that requires high pressing, could make him a logical fit for Slot’s vision.

Long-Term Vision under Slot

It is not just about numbers or availability. Slot and Hughes are building a squad with identity. The club’s style is likely to be refined under the Dutchman, with an emphasis on intelligent movement, adaptability, and link-up play.

Photo: IMAGO

In that light, Ekitike’s technical flair, sharp bursts into space, and unorthodox attacking movements offer promise. There’s an obvious risk in his limited top-level consistency, but the potential ceiling remains high.

Photo IMAGO

As Romano concludes:“Liverpool are working on this deal… they are waiting to find a solution for Darwin Nunez so Hugo Ekitike remains a name on the list at Liverpool.”

This is a waiting game. But Liverpool, operating with purpose and restraint, may yet find that Ekitike becomes the right answer at the right time.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

There will be understandable scepticism among sections of the Liverpool fanbase at the idea of Hugo Ekitike leading the line next season. The 23-year-old’s trajectory has not exactly followed a smooth upward curve. After bursting onto the scene with Reims, his move to PSG ended with limited minutes and little impact. If he cannot establish himself in Ligue 1, what makes Liverpool so confident he will deliver in the Premier League?

Supporters will also wonder whether this is a genuine first-choice target or a convenient low-cost option while the club offloads Nunez. The fact Romano stresses this is “not a deal happening today or tomorrow” only adds to the perception that Ekitike is more of a Plan C than a marquee statement.

The comparisons with Isak and Osimhen only heighten concerns. Isak is a proven Premier League talent and Osimhen is a Serie A title-winner with Champions League experience. Ekitike, by contrast, has promise but no proven pedigree at the highest level. Are Liverpool settling here?

The club will need to get this next move right. If Nunez is indeed on his way out, the pressure will intensify to bring in a forward who can deliver immediately. Ekitike may have potential, but fans want more than that. They want someone who can thrive alongside Salah, Gakpo and Wirtz, not someone still trying to make a name for himself.

Time will tell whether this move materialises, but for now, many will remain unconvinced.