Journalist: Liverpool and Chelsea consider move for high-scoring Bundesliga star | OneFootball

Ekitike’s rise shaped by bold decisions

Hugo Ekitike’s development has never followed a predictable trajectory. From being fourth-choice at Stade Reims to starring in the Bundesliga with Eintracht Frankfurt, the 22-year-old’s rise has been underpinned by ambition and belief. Credit must go to Adam Bate of Sky Sports for capturing this narrative so vividly.

Back when he was still a teenager at Reims, the coaching staff devised a development plan that set the tone. Oscar Garcia, his then-coach, explained: “These were players with similar profiles from teams that were better than our team, but not at the distance Paris Saint-Germain were from us. We challenged him to reach the level of the other two strikers.”

What started as a sensible target quickly evolved. Ekitike forced his manager to reassess expectations entirely. “Within months, he wanted to reach the same level as Mbappe.” That kind of mental strength cannot be coached. It is instinctive and defines the players who move from potential to performance.

Now, after a 22-goal season with Frankfurt, Ekitike’s name is back in Premier League conversations. Newcastle were once linked. Now it’s Chelsea and Liverpool showing serious interest. For Ekitike, this isn’t just a return to the spotlight — it’s a calculated next step.

Photo IMAGO

Bundesliga breakthrough validates early promise

His career didn’t always have this momentum. A short-term loan to Vejle Boldklub in Denmark gave him his first taste of consistent football. That period proved critical. It wasn’t just about game time. It was about maturity.

Coach Uzunea Dumitru told Sky Sports: “His skill with the ball is amazing and he has speed for his size – he is 1.90m. His agility and his ability with ball is unbelievable. He is a smart player too. He can play as a striker or a link player.”

It’s worth underlining how pivotal that spell was. Dumitru added: “Sometimes in life it is very important how you build your steps and he chose very well with Vejle. I think he came to a good club. It had a good structure.”

Frankfurt clearly agreed. After an initial loan, they secured Ekitike permanently, and under Dino Toppmoller, he became a crucial part of their attacking setup. His physical presence, technical skill and mentality finally clicked into a complete package.

A move to PSG could have easily derailed his progress. Some players lose confidence when surrounded by world-class talent but denied regular minutes. But for Ekitike, it became a masterclass in patience and perspective.

“Any striker would have struggled,” Garcia acknowledged, referring to competing with Lionel Messi, Neymar and Kylian Mbappe. “But, for sure, he learned a lot and now he is a better player because of it.”

He has not been without detractors. Garcia also revealed: “He always was a talented player but some coaches did not like him because of his profile and sometimes because of his character. They were thinking he was a little bit arrogant. He always wanted to be compared with the best ones.”

That self-confidence, however, is now an asset. The goals, assists and consistency he’s demonstrated this season prove he belongs at the elite level. It is no longer about what he might become, but where he fits next.

Photo: IMAGO

Premier League potential and club fit

As both Chelsea and Liverpool look to bolster their attacking depth, Ekitike presents an intriguing option. He’s not a traditional number nine. As Sam Tighe stated, “Hugo Ekitike is not the natural No 9 that many sides are seeking.” But that versatility could be exactly what modern top-six clubs require.

Liverpool, under Arne Slot, may seek dynamic options in the forward line capable of rotating positions. Chelsea’s continued search for a reliable frontman also puts Ekitike firmly in view, especially given his proven record across multiple systems and leagues.

At just 22, his best years are ahead. His experience in France, Denmark and Germany gives him a well-rounded footballing education. Add to that his mental steel and self-belief, and you have a player ready for England’s top flight.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

Premier League fans have every right to be excited about Hugo Ekitike’s potential arrival. His story is one of hard work, humility when needed, and the kind of relentless confidence that top players tend to have. While some supporters may see his PSG spell as a failure, many recognise it as a stepping stone. Few players are given regular time behind Messi, Neymar and Mbappe.

From a Liverpool perspective, Ekitike might not walk into the starting XI, but he would add serious depth. His movement and ability to link play could complement the likes of Darwin Núñez and Mohamed Salah, particularly in a more fluid front three. Arne Slot values intelligent, technical forwards — and Ekitike fits that mould.

Chelsea fans might see him as a solution to their ongoing striker woes. With Christopher Nkunku still finding his feet and Nicolas Jackson inconsistent, Ekitike’s profile is appealing. He may not offer brute strength, but his awareness, quick feet and adaptability give Mauricio Pochettino (or any successor) genuine options.

This is not just hype. Ekitike’s 22 goals last season show he’s producing. A Premier League move would be a test, but based on his journey so far, he’ll rise to the occasion. His career decisions suggest ambition, not arrogance, and that kind of hunger is exactly what the Premier League thrives on.