Liverpool’s Summer Spree: Why Hugo Ekitike is the Right Move, Even Without Alexander Isak

Liverpool are moving like a club that knows what it wants. Premier League champions in Arne Slot’s debut season, they are not resting on their laurels. With an eye on consistency and silverware, the Reds are building a squad strong enough to compete for years to come. The addition of Hugo Ekitike is a statement. Former Liverpool midfielder Jason McAteer spoke exclusively to Anfield Index, courteys of William Hill Vegas, and shared his excitement over the move.

Ekitike’s Arrival Speaks Volumes

“Hugo Ekitike has been a name on everyone’s lips. He’s ready for his move to Liverpool but he may not be as prolific as people are thinking. His price tag is steep but he’s going to the right club,” said McAteer.

At £69 million, eyebrows are naturally raised. But Arne Slot doesn’t sign players for the sake of it. With Ekitike, it’s about potential and fit. His ability, alongside Liverpool’s attacking options of Mohamed Salah, Cody Gakpo and Florian Wirtz, could light up the league. McAteer nailed it: “He’s exactly what Liverpool need.”

It’s also telling that other major clubs were circling. “Newcastle wanted him, so did Arsenal,” McAteer reminded us. That type of competition signals Liverpool are not just getting a raw prospect, they’re getting a forward with serious upside.

Time Running Out for Darwin Nunez?

While Nunez has shown flashes of brilliance during his time on Merseyside, there’s a growing sense that his Anfield chapter may be coming to a close. Slot wants reliability, adaptability and end product.

“Darwin Nunez may not be up to the challenge of playing week-in, week-out under Arne Slot. Ekitike could be a player who takes the opportunity by the scruff of the neck and claim a starting position for himself, he can do that,” added McAteer.

It’s harsh, but there’s truth in it. Slot’s system is demanding. If Ekitike adapts quickly, he could become undroppable.

Isak Unlikely This Summer, But the Door Isn’t Shut

With Ekitike incoming, fans still clinging to hope for Alexander Isak may need to temper expectations. As McAteer puts it, “With Hugo Ekitike arriving at Liverpool it diminishes the hopes of signing Alexander Isak in this window, it would leave Newcastle too short.”

Timing matters. Newcastle are in the Champions League and won’t sell one of their best without an adequate replacement. However, January is only a few months away. “There may be an opportunity to revisit the deal in January,” McAteer teased.

Owners Finally Show Their Teeth

Perhaps the most striking aspect of Liverpool’s summer is their decisiveness. Gone are the days of pinching pennies and hoping for bargains. “Liverpool have already spent more than £200million this summer which is quite alien territory for the club and the fans. It’s like they’ve won the lottery this year!” McAteer observed.

This investment is about more than just chasing trophies. It’s about building a legacy under Slot. “They’ve brought in some quality players and bolstered Arne Slot’s squad. The club didn’t want to make the same mistake they did under Jurgen Klopp, when they had to undergo a massive rebuild,” McAteer said, reflecting on the foresight now guiding the club.

With Giorgi Mamardashvili, Jeremie Frimpong, Milos Kerkez and Florian Wirtz already in, and Ekitike about to follow, this is a new era at Anfield. The chase for Isak may be on hold, but the direction is crystal clear. Liverpool mean business.