Fabrizio Romano shares what he’s actually been hearing about Hugo Ekitike and Liverpool recently
Liverpool’s No. 9 Dilemma: Hugo Ekitike, Sesko or Gyokeres?
After a relatively quiet couple of transfer windows, Liverpool are approaching this summer with renewed urgency. Last season saw only Federico Chiesa and Giorgi Mamardashvili arrive, but the current window has already brought significant movement.
Caoimhin Kelleher has been sold, and Jeremie Frimpong has been added to fill the void left by Trent Alexander-Arnold, who departed for Spain. With Darwin Nunez and Luis Diaz both linked with exits, Liverpool’s attacking department could look very different by the time the new season kicks off.
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Liverpool Eyeing a New Number Nine
It’s no surprise then that links to Eintracht Frankfurt’s Hugo Ekitike are surfacing with increasing frequency. The 22-year-old striker enjoyed a breakout season in the Bundesliga and has drawn interest from several European heavyweights, including Chelsea and Liverpool.
However, according to Fabrizio Romano, no formal contact has been made between the Reds and Frankfurt. The reason? Florian Wirtz remains the club’s top priority, with Liverpool reluctant to shift focus until that high-profile deal is finalised.
That said, Romano notes that Ekitike is “appreciated” at Anfield, hinting that a move could materialize if other dominoes fall.
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Is Ekitike Worth the Gamble?
There’s no denying Ekitike’s potential. Still only 22, he netted 15 goals this past season, and his combination of flair, pace, and composure makes him an attractive option for any modern system. But with a reported price tag of £85 million, the move feels like a considerable risk for Liverpool—especially considering his inconsistent scoring record in previous campaigns.
For that kind of outlay, Arne Slot and FSG may consider safer options.
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Alternatives on the Table
Two other names are gaining traction: Benjamin Sesko and Viktor Gyökeres.
Sesko, who also managed a solid return this term, is seen as a more consistent performer. The 21-year-old RB Leipzig striker blends physical presence with sharp movement, and crucially, he would cost significantly less than Ekitike.
Then there’s Gyökeres. The Swedish forward has been a revelation at Sporting CP, contributing to a staggering 67 goals across all competitions this season. With a release clause of around £60 million, he arguably offers the best value for money among the trio.
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Slot’s First Big Attacking Call
With Wirtz’s signing edging closer, Slot and Liverpool’s transfer chiefs will soon turn their attention to the frontline. Whether they opt for Ekitike’s potential, Sesko’s reliability, or Gyökeres’ production remains to be seen.
But one thing is certain: Liverpool need a proven goal-getter. Their title ambitions won’t wait, and neither will the fans.
As the opening Premier League fixture creeps closer, the question remains—who will lead the line at Anfield?