Liverpool is determined to start the 2025/26 season, with top-class number nine leading the line under new head coach Arne Slot, with Hugo Ekitike, Alexander Isak and Victor Osimhen emerging as key names on the club’s shortlist.
Following last season’s title-winning campaign, the Reds are focusing on evolving offensive with strikers who fit in slot philosophy.
After extensive scouting and internal analysis, Hugo Ekitike from Eintracht Frankfurt appeared as a priority target, informed by sources close to the agent industry Catch off side.
Ekitike’s impressive performance in the Bundesliga has not been intrigued by other top European clubs, including Arsenal, Manchester United and Chelsea.
The attacker scored 22 goals and provided 12 assists to the German club last season.
Liverpool is at the top of their transfer plan Hugo Ekitique
Frankfurt valued the strikers at around 8.5-100 million euros, reflecting the growing demand in the market.
However, Ekitike is aware that Liverpool may need to offload players first to drive moves, and is reportedly pleased to wait patiently for the Reds to clear their team’s space before proceeding with the talk.
The attackers of Eintracht Frankfurt have been described as “very special” in the past.
Liverpool’s initial plan was to pursue Newcastle United’s Isaac, a player who closely tracked for his proven Premier League pedigree, but negotiations have proven challenging, with Newcastle giving Sweden an international £150 million valuation indicating its reluctance to sell.
Darwin Nunes is out of the club
In parallel, Liverpool explored the move of Naples’ Victor Osimchen, representing a creative swap deal that included Darwin Nunes, Federico Chiesa and £17 million in cash, seducing Serie into negotiations.
Naples are considering the proposal, but it shows that Italian clubs can ask for additional cash to finalise their contract.
Slot is looking for an impressive striker not only for his goalscoring ability, but also for his high press and link-up play.
Ekitike’s profile ticks these boxes and offers more financially viable options than Isak and Osimhen, placing him as a club’s top priority.
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