Ekitiké joins Liverpool in big-money move

By Martin Graham

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

The reported charge exceeds €90 million (£78 million, $104.6 million), and Ekitiké is believed to have dedicated to a six-year stick with the present English champions. With the settlement now full, the 23-year-old will fly out to Hong Kong later this week to hitch his new teammates throughout their ongoing preseason preparations.

Ekitiké’s jersey quantity might be revealed at a later level in the summertime, as per membership sources.

Influence of latest additions on Slot’s undertaking

The ahead strikes to Anfield after a productive stint in Germany with Eintracht Frankfurt. He made 64 appearances for the Bundesliga aspect, scoring 26 instances. His rise within the squad coincided with the exit of Omar Marmoush in January, making a platform for Ekitiké to ascertain himself and appeal to curiosity throughout the continent.

Earlier than his time in Frankfurt, Ekitiké was on the books at Paris Saint-Germain. Nonetheless, his affect grew notably in Germany, the place he earned recognition for his contributions and improvement, changing into a key determine for his aspect.

He’s the fifth newcomer to the Merseyside membership this summer time, following the arrivals of Florian Wirtz, Jeremie Frimpong, Milos Kerkez, and Giorgi Mamardashvili. Supervisor Arne Slot has overseen a major rebuild of the workforce in his first switch window after delivering the Premier League title in his debut marketing campaign.

Slot’s squad has seen main reinforcements aimed toward each rapid competitors and long-term stability. The additions mirror a technique that blends youthful expertise with gamers able to contribute instantly, positioning Liverpool for sustained success throughout all competitions.

Ahead line faces renewed competitors

Ekitiké may face an instantaneous problem for a beginning function amid uncertainty surrounding current forwards. Darwin Núñez and Luis Díaz have each been linked with potential exits, casting doubt on their futures on the membership.

Díaz was utilized in varied attacking roles underneath Slot, whereas Núñez operated primarily as a central striker. Ought to both or each go away, Ekitiké could also be handed larger tasks sooner than anticipated.

No matter how the ahead line takes form, Liverpool has added a participant with confirmed scoring capacity and additional potential for development. At simply 23 years of age, Ekitiké enhances the depth and long-term prospects of one in every of Europe’s elite sides.

Martin Graham is an MFF sports activities author