Premier League champions Liverpool have completed the signing of French forward Hugo Ekitike from Bundesliga side Eintracht Frankfurt in a deal worth an initial £69 million, with a further £10 million in potential add-ons.
The 23-year-old, who was named in the Bundesliga Team of the Season after netting 22 goals in 48 appearances last term, has signed a long-term contract with the Reds after passing his medical and agreeing personal terms. He is expected to join the squad in Hong Kong later this week for the club’s pre-season tour of Asia.
Ekitike’s arrival marks another major step in Liverpool’s summer overhaul under new manager Arne Slot, taking the club’s spending past £250 million. The Reds had turned their focus to the France Under-21 international after Newcastle United refused to sell Swedish striker Alexander Isak, who is valued at around £150 million.
Liverpool beat off competition from both Newcastle and Manchester United to secure Ekitike, widely considered one of Europe’s most promising young strikers. He previously played for Reims, PSG, and Frankfurt, where he revitalized his career following a difficult stint in Paris.
The Reds are reshaping their forward line following the tragic death of Diogo Jota in a car crash in Spain. Uruguay international Darwin Nunez is reportedly available for transfer, while Bayern Munich’s approach for Luis Diaz has been rejected.
Ekitike joins a list of high-profile arrivals at Anfield this summer, including German playmaker Florian Wirtz (£116 million), defenders Jeremie Frimpong and Milos Kerkez, and Georgian goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili.
“Ekitike has been a real asset to our team on and off the pitch,” said Eintracht Frankfurt sporting director Markus Krosche. “We’re delighted he can now take the next step, a step he has earned through his performances with us.”
With Ekitike on board, Liverpool continue to reinforce their squad as they prepare to defend their domestic title and make a strong push in Europe this coming season.
Written By Rodney Mbua
