Hugo Ekitike’s arrival from Eintracht Frankfurt for a deal worth up to £79 million marks a significant coup for the Premier League champions. The 23-year-old French striker, who completed his medical and signed a six-year contract this week, has spoken passionately about his decision to join Arne Slot’s squad, describing the move as a childhood dream realized. As Liverpool prepare for their pre-season tour of Asia, Ekitike’s reflections reveal a player brimming with excitement and determination to make his mark at Anfield.
Ekitike’s journey to Merseyside has been one of perseverance. After bursting onto the scene at Stade Reims with 11 goals in the 2021-22 Ligue 1 season, he earned a high-profile move to Paris Saint-Germain. However, limited opportunities under Luis Enrique saw him join Frankfurt on loan in February 2024, a move made permanent last summer. It was in the Bundesliga where Ekitike truly flourished, scoring 22 goals and providing 12 assists across all competitions last season, helping Frankfurt secure Champions League qualification. His versatility, tactical intelligence, and ability to press high caught the eye of Liverpool’s recruitment team, who moved decisively after Newcastle United’s £70m bid was rejected.
Speaking in his first official interview as a Liverpool player, Ekitike expressed overwhelming pride at joining the club. “It’s a very proud moment for me, to play with guys like Salah, Van Dijk, and Morton is a dream come true,” he said. “I play with these guys on the PlayStation, now it’s a reality—it is crazy!” The young striker’s enthusiasm was palpable as he reflected on his discussions with head coach Arne Slot, whose vision for the team was a decisive factor. “It’s the best team in England and one of the best teams in the world, so yeah, it was Liverpool,” Ekitike added. “Since I talked to the coach, in my head, I was sure about it.”
Ekitike’s decision was not without competition. Newcastle United’s interest was well-documented, but the forward was unequivocal about his preference. “I was told Newcastle were interested, and honestly, I was disappointed,” he revealed. “I’ve been working so hard, and smaller clubs like Newcastle wanted me. I quickly told everyone I only want Liverpool.” His commitment to joining the Reds underscores the allure of Slot’s project, which has already seen Liverpool spend close to £300m this summer, including the British record signing of Florian Wirtz for £116m and defenders Milos Kerkez and Jeremie Frimpong for a combined £70m.
The striker’s arrival comes at a pivotal moment for Liverpool, who are reshaping their attacking unit following the tragic loss of Diogo Jota and potential departures of Darwin Nunez and Luis Diaz. Ekitike’s ability to play across the frontline, combined with his knack for creating chances—evidenced by his eight assists in the Bundesliga last season—makes him a perfect fit for Slot’s fluid system. “I think that was the right moment,” Ekitike said of his move. “I came to the Bundesliga hungry, I wanted to show that I’m a good player and I can make the difference on the pitch. I think I did well last season. Now, I feel ready to make a bigger step.”