Arne Slot's Master Stroke: The Inside Story of How He Lured Hugo Ekitike to Liverpool
Following prolonged speculation linking him with Newcastle United, Hugo Ekitiké completed his move to Liverpool last week in a dramatic twist—with reports suggesting manager Arne Slot's tactical blueprint for the French striker played a crucial role in convincing him to join the Anfield club.
The Merseyside club secured Ekitiké's signature in a deal potentially worth £79 million ($106.7 million) to Eintracht Frankfurt, with the 23-year-old already joining his new squad in Hong Kong as they continue their pre-season preparations for the 2025–26 campaign.
Ekitiké had been a highly sought-after target during the transfer window, with Newcastle United showing the strongest interest, but according to L'Equipe and ESPN, a virtual meeting with Slot, during which the Dutch coach outlined his tactical philosophy, proved decisive in swaying the striker's decision.
Slot reportedly explained to Ekitiké that within his favoured 4-2-3-1 formation, he required a versatile, inventive and agile forward to spearhead the attack. A striker capable of combining effectively with fellow attackers, technically gifted, prepared to exploit space in behind and someone who would press aggressively when not in possession.
Ekitiké was reportedly captivated by what sources describe as a Slot "masterclass", immediately recognizing himself as the ideal candidate for the Dutch manager's requirements. Following that discussion, the former Paris Saint-Germain striker made Liverpool his primary target.
Darwin Núñez has struggled to justify his £85 million ($114.8 million) transfer fee across his three campaigns on Merseyside and has been consistently linked with a departure from Liverpool this summer. Luis Díaz, who frequently operated as an improvised striker throughout 2024–25, may also be considering his future—the Colombian is reportedly eager for a new challenge and has attracted attention from Bayern Munich.
Ekitiké, barely two weeks after his video conference with Slot, is now gearing up for his Liverpool bow, and may make an appearance in their encounter with AC Milan on Saturday. A Premier League introduction could subsequently arrive when the Reds begin their championship defense against Bournemouth on Friday, August 15.
Whether Ekitiké will be accompanied at Liverpool by Newcastle's Alexander Isak remains uncertain—the Reds shifted their attention from the Swedish striker after the Magpies indicated their reluctance to sell, though he has now reportedly expressed his wish to the club about exploring opportunities elsewhere.