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Hugo Ekitike Edges Closer to Liverpool Switch Amid Nunez Exit Links

Wirtz headlines €200m summer spree

Liverpool’s summer window has already ignited with over €200m spent, spearheaded by the blockbuster signing of Florian Wirtz from Bayer Leverkusen. The 22-year-old German international arrived for an initial €100m, potentially rising to €116m with add-ons. It’s a statement of intent from Richard Hughes and Arne Slot.

But with big arrivals come big decisions—and one of those may be the departure of Darwin Nunez. The Uruguayan striker is reportedly a top target for Antonio Conte’s Napoli. Should that move materialise, it could open the door for another significant attacking addition at Anfield.

Hugo Ekitike agrees terms on five-year deal

According to renowned transfer expert Nicolo Schira, Liverpool are leading the race to sign Hugo Ekitike from Eintracht Frankfurt, with the French striker having “given his availability for a contract until 2030.” Talks are understood to be open, and Liverpool are now seen as favourites to land the 23-year-old.

#Liverpool are currently leading the race to try to sign Hugo #Ekitikè from #EintrachtFrankfurt. The striker has given his availability for a contract until 2030. Opened talks. #transfers #LFC https://t.co/v2KO3MY6gh

— Nicolò Schira (@NicoSchira) July 9, 2025

Ekitike, who has rebounded impressively from a tough spell at Paris Saint-Germain, now finds himself in demand following a breakout campaign in the Bundesliga that helped secure Champions League qualification for Frankfurt. The German club, under no pressure to sell due to the player’s contract running until 2029, are said to value him at around €100m.

Schira’s report added: “Liverpool are currently leading the race to try to sign Hugo Ekitikè from Eintracht Frankfurt.”

Nunez sale could trigger new No9 arrival

With Nunez possibly heading for Italy, Liverpool will have a vacancy for their iconic No9 shirt—a number steeped in club tradition. Ekitike, a France Under-21 international, fits the profile: mobile, technically sharp, and with a hunger to prove himself at the highest level.

While the Reds had previously been linked with Victor Osimhen, Alexander Isak, Joao Pedro, and Jonathan David, many of those targets have since moved or become financially out of reach. That’s paved the way for a focused push for Ekitike, whose blend of physicality and finesse could suit the Premier League.

Ekitike’s Anfield link isn’t new. Liverpool tracked him back in 2022 when he was lighting it up at Stade de Reims. However, he chose a star-studded PSG squad instead—a move that stunted his development amid fierce competition. Now, with confidence restored in Frankfurt, this could be his moment.

Frankfurt poised to play hardball

Eintracht Frankfurt’s negotiating position is strong, given Ekitike’s long-term deal and recent form. But Liverpool’s intent, bolstered by their financial firepower and early market activity, suggests they are serious about bolstering their attacking ranks.

Whether Ekitike arrives depends largely on Nunez’s exit, but the wheels are already in motion.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

From a Liverpool supporter’s standpoint, the Ekitike news will provoke mixed feelings. Darwin Nunez remains a divisive figure—his raw attributes are clear, but consistency in front of goal has eluded him. If he departs, replacing him with a 23-year-old like Ekitike feels both ambitious and slightly risky.

There’s undeniable potential in Ekitike. His stint at Frankfurt showed he can perform in a system that values positional discipline and pressing—key traits for any forward under Slot’s guidance. However, his inconsistent spell at PSG still lingers in memory. It’s not easy to judge if he’s ready for the intense spotlight of Liverpool, especially when stepping into the shoes of a £64m predecessor.

Still, there’s logic to the move. Ekitike brings pace, movement, and a nose for goal. He could develop into a top-tier striker given the right environment and coaching, and at 23, there’s ample time to mould him into Liverpool’s next attacking spearhead.

If this deal hinges on Nunez’s sale, fans will watch closely how Liverpool structure the financials. Spending €100m on a player with just one standout Bundesliga season carries risk—but it’s a calculated gamble that aligns with the club’s evolving recruitment ethos under Hughes.