Liverpool appear to be eyeing Hugo Ekitike as their top candidate for the No.9 role this summer, with Empire of the Kop reporting that the French forward has emerged as the “best fit” for Arne Slot’s pressing and fluid attacking style.Sky Germany’s Florian Plettenberg claims Liverpool have whittled down their striker shortlist to three names, namely Hugo Ekitike, Victor Osimhen and Alexander Isak. While the latter two remain in contention, Ekitike is understood to have edged them out as the most strategic option, both in terms of playing profile and financial possibilities.According to Empire of the Kop sources, Slot is keen on a striker who combines pace, pressing energy and strong link-up play, and Ekitike has those qualities. While Eintracht Frankfurt are holding out for a fee in the region of £73m to £85.9m, Liverpool’s recruitment team are reportedly content to wait until turnover creates space for a move.Newcastle United’s Alexander Isak was initially considered Liverpool’s top target. However, Empire of the Kop reports that “there is a realisation that it will be very difficult to sign him this summer,” with the Magpies demanding more than £150m.Instead, the pursuit of Victor Osimhen has turned creative. The Reds have proposed a swap deal involving Darwin Nunez, Federico Chiesa and £17m to Napoli. The offer is still being assessed by the Serie A champions, who are understood to be pushing for a higher cash component.With Isak’s valuation price tag soaring well above the £100m mark, a direct deal for Ekitike in the £75m–£80m range looks more pragmatic. There is also a growing sense that Ekitike is not just a budget option, but one that is tactically and developmentally aligned with Slot’s era at Liverpool for the long term.
Liverpool appear to be eyeing Hugo Ekitike as their top candidate.
