Liverpool have agreed a massive £79 million deal for French striker Hugo Ekitike, taking their summer spending spree to an eye-watering £300 million. This blockbuster move cements the Reds’ ambition to dominate Europe under new boss Arne Slot.
Hugo Ekitike — the 23-year-old sensation from Eintracht Frankfurt who scored 22 goals and registered 12 assists last season. After missing out on Newcastle’s Alexander Isak, the Premier League champions shifted their sights firmly on Ekitike and wasted no time sealing the deal.
The £69 million upfront payment, plus £10 million in performance-related add-ons, brings Liverpool’s total summer transfer spend dangerously close to £300 million — a staggering figure that sends a strong message to their rivals in England and Europe.
Ekitike becomes their seventh signing this window. The French striker joins a star-studded list including Florian Wirtz, Jeremie Frimpong, Milos Kerkez, Giorgi Mamardashvili, Armin Pecsi, and Freddie Woodman — all carefully picked to strengthen the squad ahead of a packed season.
Ekitike has reportedly agreed a six-year contract and will join the squad on their pre-season tour in Hong Kong and Japan once his medical is completed in the UK. The striker is expected to link up with the team later this week — right in time for their friendly match against AC Milan in Hong Kong on Saturday.
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Liverpool has shown no signs of slowing down in the transfer market, with their aggressive recruitment drive aimed at cementing their status as Europe’s elite. Arne Slot, who replaced Jurgen Klopp, has clearly identified key areas for improvement and Ekitike fits perfectly into his attacking blueprint.
With Newcastle’s £70 million bid for Ekitike rejected earlier this summer, the young forward made it known that his heart was set on Anfield. His desire to join the Reds over Newcastle and other suitors signals Liverpool’s growing pull in the European football scene.
Liverpool convinced Ekitike — a player with a €100 million release clause — to join for slightly less. Their £79 million package was enough to get Eintracht Frankfurt on board, proving Liverpool’s negotiation tactics remain sharp even in a hyper-inflated market.
Last season, Ekitike lit up the Bundesliga with his explosive performances, helping Eintracht qualify for the Champions League. His blistering pace, sharp finishing, and keen eye for assists made him one of Europe’s hottest properties in this transfer window.
It is Liverpool aiming high with a player who not only offers goals but also versatility across the forward line — a key trait Slot values in his system. Ekitike’s ability to link up play, create chances, and lead the line gives Liverpool an edge heading into the new season.
The move also signals the end of Liverpool’s pursuit of other top targets. With Bayern Munich’s €67.5 million bid for Luis Díaz firmly rejected and Alexander Isak talks going nowhere, Liverpool locked their sights on Ekitike — and now, they have their man.
It is Liverpool making a statement before a ball has even been kicked this season. The decision to include Ekitike in the squad for the Hong Kong pre-season tour highlights how crucial he is to Slot’s plans. The forward’s medical is scheduled for Tuesday in the UK, after which he will jet out to Hong Kong and join his new teammates.
While some critics question Liverpool’s aggressive spending, fans are thrilled at the club’s proactive approach. The signings of Wirtz, Frimpong, and now Ekitike have reignited excitement among supporters who expect nothing less than silverware.
Liverpool will be now chasing glory with a refreshed squad, a new manager, and an eye firmly on the Champions League and Premier League double. As they head into their friendly match tour, the world watches to see how this bold new era unfolds.
For Ekitike, this is a golden opportunity to make his mark on English football with one of the biggest clubs in the world. For Liverpool, it’s a masterstroke that could define their 2025/26 season.
