Liverpool Set to Make ‘Huge Step’ Towards Signing £60m Striker – Report | OneFootball

Liverpool’s Hugo Ekitike Chase Intensifies as Isak Becomes Unavailable

Liverpool’s hunt for a new striker has taken a significant twist, with Hugo Ekitike now looking like the leading contender to join the Reds this summer, in a move that could be worth around £60million. As reported by Anfield Watch, Liverpool’s interest in the 21-year-old French forward has taken “a giant step forward” following developments surrounding Newcastle United’s Alexander Isak.

Newcastle’s firm stance on Isak’s availability – or rather, the lack thereof – has narrowed Liverpool’s options in their search for a long-term number nine. According to The Daily Mail, “transfer chief and agents” expect Isak to stay put at St. James’ Park. That shift has turned all eyes towards Ekitike, who now sits comfortably as Liverpool’s top attacking target.

“He’s now quite comfortably the best option the Reds have up top and we imagine they’ll push a lot harder on a deal now,” wrote Anfield Watch.

Photo: IMAGO

Why Liverpool Need a New Striker

With Arne Slot set to begin his tenure at Anfield, an overhaul of the forward line appears inevitable. Diogo Jota and Darwin Núñez have both been linked with exits, and though neither departure is confirmed, the club are preparing for all scenarios.

Liverpool’s recruitment team have cast a wide net, considering the likes of Liam Delap and Jonathan David. Delap’s £30m release clause could make him an attractive domestic option, while David’s expiring contract at Lille may offer exceptional value. But when it comes to long-term potential and high-ceiling development, Ekitike is rapidly emerging as the standout.

Anfield Watch state: “Ekitike hasn’t quite hit those heights but he’s also four years younger than Isak. He’s got every chance to become as good as the Swede.”

It’s a significant observation. Ekitike may not be as polished as Isak, but his trajectory is one that could fit perfectly into Liverpool’s evolving squad under a new manager with a fresh tactical blueprint.

Photo: IMAGO

Financial Sense Behind the Move

One of the most compelling aspects of the potential Ekitike deal is its financial prudence. While Newcastle’s valuation of Isak is pushing nine figures, Ekitike would cost “nearly £100m less.” That kind of saving could be critical to Liverpool’s broader transfer strategy this summer, especially as they aim to reinforce in other key areas.

“Ekitike is a phenomenal talent and one who could lead the line for Liverpool for many years to come,” the report concludes – and at a fraction of the cost, this seems like one of the smartest investments on the table.

Timing Could Be Everything

With the transfer window edging closer, Liverpool must act swiftly to secure their top target. The longer they delay, the more likely rival interest could complicate negotiations. Ekitike, currently owned by Paris Saint-Germain and having spent time on loan at Eintracht Frankfurt, will have suitors.

However, the opportunity for regular football at Anfield under a progressive coach like Arne Slot could prove a persuasive factor. If Liverpool can align on personal terms and navigate the final negotiations with PSG, a deal could materialise in the early stages of the window.

Photo: IMAGO

Liverpool fans are used to seeing potential blossom into superstardom. If Ekitike is indeed the next name through the doors at the AXA Training Ground, he will arrive not only with pressure – but with a golden chance to carve out a lasting legacy.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

It’s impossible not to feel a bit intrigued by this potential move for Hugo Ekitike. On paper, he’s got everything Liverpool fans want in a new striker: youth, mobility, flair, and that hint of unpredictability that’s often the mark of a special player.

Of course, comparisons to Alexander Isak are inevitable. Isak’s 2024 campaign has been nothing short of electric – but Ekitike being “four years younger” makes a world of difference in a long-term rebuild. With Arne Slot stepping in, the next era of Liverpool will need fresh legs and new focal points, especially up front. If Darwin Nunez or Diogo Jota are sacrificed to raise funds, fans will want more than just a replacement. They’ll want promise. Excitement. A reason to believe.

What makes this move even more appealing is the cost. Signing a high-upside forward for significantly less than Isak or other top-tier names allows the club to spread investment elsewhere – maybe a centre-back, or a midfield destroyer to add balance. And let’s not forget, Liverpool’s best modern-era transfers (Salah, Mane, Robertson) weren’t marquee signings at the time.

Yes, Ekitike hasn’t had a world-beating season yet. But neither did Sadio Mane before he arrived from Southampton. Sometimes the smartest signings are the ones that grow into the role. If Slot and the recruitment team believe in his potential, then fans should be excited about what’s coming next.