Hugo Ekitike grew up idolising Manchester United. But when it came time to choose his next club, the 23-year-old striker turned his back on boyhood loyalties and said yes to Liverpool. Here’s why.
Despite growing up a Manchester United fan, Hugo Ekitike found Liverpool’s vision impossible to ignore.
According to reports, the turning point came during a Zoom call with Arne Slot, where the new Liverpool boss laid out his plans for the upcoming season — and made it clear he wanted a dynamic, intelligent No.9 to lead the line. Ekitike was sold.
ESPN reports that the striker was “completely convinced” after that conversation, viewing himself as the perfect fit for Slot’s system.
The report also made it clear that Ekitike was always Liverpool’s main striker target — even with reports linking the club to Alexander Isak.
Just weeks before talks advanced, Ekitike was seen wearing a vintage Gerrard No. 28 shirt — a subtle hint that now feels like early foreshadowing.
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What Liverpool Are Getting in Hugo Ekitike
At just 23, Hugo Ekitike already has the profile of a modern centre-forward — tall, technically gifted, mobile, and intelligent off the ball.
After a modest spell at PSG, he reignited his career at Eintracht Frankfurt, delivering 22 goals and 12 assists last season to put himself back on the radar of Europe’s top clubs.
Liverpool acted early, with sporting director Richard Hughes and chief scout Barry Hunter tracking him closely since March.
The Reds have now agreed a £69 million fee with Frankfurt, rising to £79 million with add-ons, on a six-year deal running until 2031.
PSG will receive 20% of any future sale due to a sell-on clause.
Ekitike is expected to join up with the Liverpool squad in Hong Kong once his medical is complete — slightly delayed after his travel plans were pushed back.
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