Liverpool Complete Hugo Ekitike Transfer as Star Forward Joins Pre-Season Squad
Liverpool confirmed the acquisition of French forward Hugo Ekitiké on Wednesday following the completion of his medical examination and agreement on personal contract terms.
The transfer is believed to be worth more than €90 million (£78 million, $104.6 million) with the player reportedly committing to a six-year contract with the current Premier League title holders. Having completed the necessary procedures, Ekitiké is set to link up with his new squad members later this week in Hong Kong, where Liverpool are conducting their pre-season preparations.
The club will announce his jersey number at a later date this summer.
Ekitiké arrives from Eintracht Frankfurt following an 18-month spell in the German top flight. The French U21 international previously featured for Paris Saint-Germain but gained recognition during his time in Germany, netting 26 goals across 64 matches. His profile increased significantly after Omar Marmoush's departure in January, attracting attention from clubs across Europe.
Ekitiké becomes the fifth new addition alongside Florian Wirtz, Jeremie Frimpong, Milos Kerkez and Giorgi Mamardashvili during this transfer window. Manager Arne Slot's squad reconstruction has led to substantial spending following their Premier League triumph in his first campaign.
The signing of Ekitiké also represents a long-term investment considering his age of just 23. Whether he will feature as a regular starter remains unclear given the uncertain situations of several players including Luis Díaz and Darwin Núñez. Though Díaz operated in various positions under Slot, Núñez functions primarily as a central striker. Both have been subject to transfer speculation this summer.
Nevertheless, Liverpool have secured another coveted talent from European football as Slot continues strengthening his squad. Frimpong provides cover for Trent Alexander-Arnold, Mamardashvili offers a potential long-term successor to Alisson, while Kerkez is expected to fulfill a similar role at left-back.
Although Ekitiké and Wirtz should make immediate contributions to the Reds' title defense and European ambitions, their youthful profiles ensure the continued competitiveness of one of football's elite clubs.