Ekitiké joins Liverpool in big-money move

By Martin Graham

Liverpool have officially confirmed the acquisition of French striker Hugo Ekitiké, who has signed a long-term contract after finalizing personal terms and passing his medical examination.

The reported fee exceeds €90 million (£78 million, $104.6 million), and Ekitiké is believed to have committed to a six-year stay with the current English champions. With the agreement now complete, the 23-year-old will fly out to Hong Kong later this week to join his new teammates during their ongoing preseason preparations.

Ekitiké’s jersey number will be revealed at a later point in the summer, as per club sources.

Impact of new additions on Slot’s project

The forward moves to Anfield after a productive stint in Germany with Eintracht Frankfurt. He made 64 appearances for the Bundesliga side, scoring 26 times. His rise in the squad coincided with the exit of Omar Marmoush in January, creating a platform for Ekitiké to establish himself and attract interest across the continent.

Before his time in Frankfurt, Ekitiké was on the books at Paris Saint-Germain. However, his influence grew notably in Germany, where he earned recognition for his contributions and development, becoming a key figure for his side.

He is the fifth newcomer to the Merseyside club this summer, following the arrivals of Florian Wirtz, Jeremie Frimpong, Milos Kerkez, and Giorgi Mamardashvili. Manager Arne Slot has overseen a significant rebuild of the team in his first transfer window after delivering the Premier League title in his debut campaign.

Slot’s squad has seen major reinforcements aimed at both immediate competition and long-term stability. The additions reflect a strategy that blends youthful talent with players ready to contribute immediately, positioning Liverpool for sustained success across all competitions.

Forward line faces renewed competition

Ekitiké could face an immediate challenge for a starting role amid uncertainty surrounding existing forwards. Darwin Núñez and Luis Díaz have both been linked with potential exits, casting doubt on their futures at the club.

Díaz was used in various attacking roles under Slot, while Núñez operated primarily as a central striker. Should either or both leave, Ekitiké may be handed greater responsibilities earlier than expected.

Regardless of how the forward line takes shape, Liverpool has added a player with proven scoring ability and further potential for growth. At just 23 years of age, Ekitiké enhances the depth and long-term prospects of one of Europe’s elite sides.