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We have a curated list of the most noteworthy news from all across the globe. With any subscription plan, you get access to exclusive articles that let you stay ahead of the curve.
We have a curated list of the most noteworthy news from all across the globe. With any subscription plan, you get access to exclusive articles that let you stay ahead of the curve.
We have a curated list of the most noteworthy news from all across the globe. With any subscription plan, you get access to exclusive articles that let you stay ahead of the curve.
The 23-year-old forward passed a medical and agreed personal terms before finalising a £69m initial fee, with an additional £10m in performance-related add-ons. He is expected to join Liverpool’s pre-season tour of Asia later this week.
Ekitike becomes the club’s latest big-money acquisition in what has been a major summer spending spree, taking their total outlay past £250m. The Reds have already broken the British transfer record for Florian Wirtz (£116m) and added full-backs Milos Kerkez and Jeremie Frimpong for a combined £70m.
Highly Sought Talent
Liverpool fended off stiff competition for Ekitike’s signature, with Newcastle United having a £70m bid rejected earlier this month. The Reds had also shown interest in Magpies forward Alexander Isak, but moved swiftly to secure Ekitike.
The striker enjoyed a breakout campaign with Frankfurt last season, scoring 15 goals and providing eight assists in 31 Bundesliga starts, helping the German side to a third-place finish. He also topped the league for shots taken (117), underlining his attacking intent.
“Hugo has developed tremendously during his time with us,” said Frankfurt sporting director Markus Krösche.
“He’s been a true asset to our team and club, both on and off the pitch. He has earned this next step.”
Tactical Versatility and Flair
Ekitike is known for his tactical intelligence and versatility, having thrived both as a lone striker and in a dual-striker formation. He often interchanged positions and supported play with clever movement and link-up, showing comfort both inside and outside the box.
Following the mid-season departure of partner Omar Marmoush to Manchester City, Ekitike stepped into a central role, flanked by two attacking midfielders. He impressed as a creative force, finishing fifth in the Bundesliga for open play chances created (44) and attacking sequences.
Analysts have likened his style to Alexander Isak, but with greater flair and a stronger dribbling ability.
Room to Grow
While Ekitike’s all-round game earned praise, his finishing remains a work in progress. Despite leading the Bundesliga in shot volume (117), he converted just 12.8%, underperforming his expected goals (xG) by 6.6 goals — the biggest margin in Europe’s top five leagues last season.
Still, Liverpool believe the Frenchman has enormous upside.
“He’s raw in certain areas, but the potential is undeniable,” a club insider noted. “With the right coaching, he can become one of the most complete forwards in Europe.”
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