Hugo Ekitike Transfer Now in Sight for Liverpool
Frankfurt’s latest move opens the door
Liverpool’s pursuit of Hugo Ekitike may be nearing a decisive moment following Eintracht Frankfurt’s latest activity in the transfer market. The Bundesliga side have confirmed the signing of Jonathan Burkardt from Mainz, a move widely viewed as preparation for Ekitike’s potential departure.
The Reds have monitored Ekitike for an extended period, with interest dating back to his emergence at Reims. Talks with the Frenchman’s representatives began in April, and Liverpool’s admiration has remained consistent. Now, Frankfurt’s decision to reinforce their forward line strongly indicates a willingness to part ways with Ekitike, clearing a potential path to the Reds, according to Anfield Watch.
Recruitment plans continue under Richard Hughes
With five new arrivals already secured — Jeremie Frimpong, Florian Wirtz, Milos Kerkez, Freddie Woodman and Armin Pecsi — Liverpool’s summer business is well underway. Yet, the club’s recruitment strategy, led by Richard Hughes, remains in full flow. The emphasis is now shifting towards strengthening both ends of the pitch.
Following the departure of Jarell Quansah, Liverpool are prioritising the addition of a centre-back. England international Marc Guehi has emerged as the primary target, and negotiations with Crystal Palace are ongoing. However, attention is also turning to the attacking third, where Ekitike remains a leading candidate.
Ekitike fits Slot’s tactical blueprint
The profile of Hugo Ekitike matches what head coach Arne Slot seeks in his attacking options. Quick, versatile, and technically proficient, Ekitike can operate centrally or drift to the left. His game is built around movement, link-up play, and a willingness to shoot — attributes that Slot values in a multi-functional forward.
Statistically, the Frenchman generates a high volume of chances and possesses a knack for finding space in crowded penalty areas. These traits make him a compelling option for a Liverpool side looking to refresh its forward line and introduce younger, more adaptable talents.
Opportunity aligned with timing
While Liverpool initially prioritised securing the deals for Kerkez and Wirtz, the timing of Frankfurt’s move for Burkardt has coincided perfectly. With Frankfurt no longer reliant on Ekitike as their primary forward, the German club may be more receptive to offers.
This development has not gone unnoticed by Liverpool’s recruitment staff. Should the financials align, and personal terms be agreed, Ekitike could become Liverpool’s next signing in a summer that’s rapidly taking shape. Though no deal is finalised, the indicators suggest that the move is edging closer — with Liverpool positioning themselves firmly at the front of the queue.
Hugo Ekitike: A Forward Tailored for Liverpool’s Tactical Evolution
Hugo Ekitike’s statistical profile over the past 12 months paints the picture of a forward who not only delivers in front of goal but also contributes meaningfully to his team’s overall play. Across 3,247 minutes of football, the 22-year-old ranks in the elite percentiles for attacking output, showcasing traits that align strongly with what Liverpool are looking for under Arne Slot. From creativity to chance generation, his numbers are among the most impressive for a forward in Europe’s top five leagues.
His attacking metrics are exceptional. Ekitike ranks in the 99th percentile for combined expected goals and assists (xG + xAG), underlining just how consistently he finds and creates goal-scoring opportunities. He also ranks in the 94th percentile for shot-creating actions, showing he’s a constant threat around the box. With non-penalty expected goals (npxG) sitting in the 93rd percentile and assists at 89, he isn’t reliant on penalties to inflate his numbers. His finishing is sharp, but crucially, so is his ability to draw defenders and open up spaces for teammates.
Where Ekitike really shines is in transitional and possession-based phases. His progressive carries and successful take-ons both place him in the 90th percentile or higher (92 and 97 respectively), signalling a player who’s confident driving the ball forward and beating opponents one-on-one. He also ranks highly in progressive passes received (90th percentile), suggesting intelligent movement and an ability to exploit pockets of space — both key to the fluid attacking model Liverpool are developing.
Though not primarily judged on defensive actions, Ekitike’s numbers in that area are surprisingly robust. His aerial duel success rate (73rd percentile) and tackle win percentage against dribblers (77th percentile) show a willingness to engage physically and contribute off the ball — an attribute often demanded of Liverpool forwards. Even in metrics like tackles and interceptions (75th percentile), Ekitike stands out positively for a striker, reinforcing his value in pressing systems.
While his passing accuracy (57th percentile) and pass attempts (75th percentile) are slightly more modest, they remain serviceable within an attacking unit that places greater emphasis on verticality than ball retention. Overall, Ekitike’s metrics support the view that he is not just a goal-scorer, but a versatile, dynamic and tactically aware forward — one who fits seamlessly into Liverpool’s evolving blueprint.
