Liverpool Step Up Hugo Ekitike Pursuit Amid Striker Shake-Up And Transfer Dominoes

Liverpool’s summer transfer activity looks poised to revolve around their forward line, with fresh reports emphasising a mounting interest in Hugo Ekitike, the prolific Eintracht Frankfurt striker. As stalwarts like Mohamed Salah edge closer to contract renewals while others potentially head for the exit, the Reds seem ready to refresh their attacking ranks in a pivotal window that could shape their Premier League ambitions for 2025/26.

The anticipated rebuild gained urgency this week after reliable Merseyside journalist Lewis Steele revealed that Liverpool have “ruled out” two previously linked forwards—Brighton’s Joao Pedro and Ipswich loan star Liam Delap, despite the latter’s attractive £30 million relegation clause. With Diogo Jota struggling for fitness and Darwin Nunez linked with a summer exit, Liverpool’s frontrunners are in flux, forcing sporting director Richard Hughes into decisive action.

Instead, the club appear increasingly focused on 22-year-old Ekitike, who has blossomed in Germany after a subdued spell at PSG. Steele stressed, “Hugo Ekitike is the name that pops up the most when I speak to people, so I think it is fair to say he is one to keep a close eye on.” With 19 goals and eight assists this season—figures bested only by Mo Salah within Liverpool’s current squad—the Frenchman ticks multiple boxes: youth, proven output in a top European league and sizeable room for growth.

Ekitike’s appeal becomes clearer when compared with alternative targets. While Newcastle’s Alexander Isak remains admired internally, eye-watering demands could force Liverpool to look elsewhere. Journalist James Pearce warned the Reds won’t overpay for Isak, positioning Ekitike as a more pragmatic option. Furthermore, competition for Delap intensifies as Manchester United and Chelsea reportedly “tussle” for his signature — diminishing Liverpool’s appetite for a bidding war.

Yet, questions remain about whether Ekitike is ready to lead a title-chasing front line. Arsenal legend Emmanuel Petit recently doubted his readiness for a ‘top-top club’, noting, “It’s probably too soon for him to come to Arsenal or Liverpool.” Petit's measured view reflects the balancing act Liverpool must perform: acquiring promise without sacrificing immediate impact.

Nonetheless, Ekitike’s performances indicate readiness for a bigger stage. His 13 Bundesliga goals leave him comfortably among Germany’s elite scorers this campaign, second only to Harry Kane by more than five goals. Thursday’s Europa League showdown against Tottenham Hotspur offers an ideal window for English suitors to assess the Frenchman’s capacity to deliver on the big occasions—another factor Liverpool will surely weigh.

Amid these transfer manoeuvres, contract talks appear more optimistic elsewhere. Mohamed Salah is reportedly “closer than ever” to penning a new deal to extend his Anfield legacy, dispelling swirling Saudi Pro League rumours and maintaining Liverpool's attacking core. Meanwhile, fresh interest surrounds young Argentine Franco Mastantuono, suggesting the Reds remain active in scouting future stars beyond Europe.

As Liverpool chase their current title dream, the meticulous planning behind the scenes hints at a dynamic summer ahead. Balancing proven class like Salah, pragmatic yet exciting targets such as Ekitike, and a refusal to overpay demonstrates a club determined to stay at the summit both this season and beyond.

Will Hugo Ekitike become the new spearhead at Anfield, or will Liverpool’s search take yet another twist? Fans are invited to share their thoughts in the comments below. Should the Reds gamble on youthful potential or push for an established star? Join the debate—and stay tuned as the transfer tale unfolds.

• Hugo Ekitike
• Liverpool FC
• Mo Salah