Liverpool’s summer transfer activity is intensifying under director Richard Hughes. The club seems determined to equip Arne Slot with the squad depth needed for a serious Premier League title challenge. Eintracht Frankfurt forward Hugo Ekitike is now reportedly nearing a move to Anfield.
Despite winning the Premier League last season, Liverpool are clearly not resting on their laurels. However, this time, the approach is markedly different with multiple signings already secured.
The club swiftly addressed full-back positions, bringing in Jeremie Frimpong and Milos Kerkez. These moves followed the high-profile acquisition of Florian Wirtz, a club-record signing.
Liverpool close in on Hugo Ekitike as Slot reshapes attack
According to reports, Liverpool are close to finalizing a deal for Hugo Ekitike. The Eintracht Frankfurt forward is valued at approximately £70 million. He has reportedly expressed a preference for Liverpool over Newcastle United.
Mohamed Salah had an outstanding season for Liverpool. He broke records for goal contributions in the Premier League. However, he narrowly missed out on breaking the assist record.
Salah created 27 significant chances in the Premier League last season. He will surely welcome the arrival of Ekitike. Ekitike scored 15 Bundesliga goals in 33 appearances. That is three times more than Darwin Nunez managed at Anfield.
Wirtz arrival boosts Liverpool’s attacking options
Liverpool demonstrated their clout by beating Bayern Munich and Manchester City to Wirtz’s signature. Wirtz will replace the creativity lost when Trent Alexander-Arnold departed for Real Madrid. He will also offer a significant goal threat from midfield.
Wirtz’s arrival significantly enhances Liverpool’s chances of success on all fronts. In contrast, there’s a possibility Ekitike may need time to adjust to English football. He recorded 0.60 xG per 90 minutes in the Bundesliga last season. As a result, he should adapt quickly with Wirtz’s support.
Nunez’s time at Liverpool may be coming to an end. The Uruguayan has struggled to meet expectations since joining from Benfica. However, he has gained a cult following among supporters.
His record of 25 goals in 95 league games falls short of the required standard. His confidence in front of goal has suffered. Nunez averages 0.99 big chances missed per 90 minutes. Therefore, it might be the right time for him to move on.
Napoli’s cooled interest presents a challenge. Plenty of interest remains from the Saudi Pro League. As a result, it seems likely that Nunez will leave.
Darwin Nunez future in doubt as Liverpool target Frankfurt striker Hugo Ekitike
The move for Ekitike could signal the end of Liverpool’s pursuit of Alexander Isak. Newcastle United have responded to Liverpool’s interest. They have reportedly opened talks with Eintracht Frankfurt for Hugo Ekitike. With the Reds leading that race, Newcastle will now try to sign Brentford‘s Yoane Wissa.
Isak enjoyed a prolific season at St James’ Park. He scored 27 goals in all competitions. This included the winner against Liverpool in the Carabao Cup final. Despite Newcastle’s strong stance, Isak is reportedly open to a move to Anfield. However, he now looks likely to remain on Tyneside.
Liverpool are making decisive moves to strengthen their squad. The potential arrival of Hugo Ekitike and Florian Wirtz underlines their ambition. Liverpool looks set to challenge for major honors under Arne Slot.
