Liverpool’s pursuit of Hugo Ekitike has taken a decisive turn and it might have come down to a single video call.
Arne Slot is reported to have spoken directly with the 23-year-old striker to outline his vision for the club and the role Ekitike would play in it (via L’Equipe).
The forward, who has attracted attention from multiple top clubs, now looks increasingly likely to land at Anfield in a deal expected to reach around £80m.
The France U21 international was seen as a priority signing after Liverpool’s push for Newcastle’s Alexander Isak met resistance.
With Frankfurt’s asking price reportedly near £86m, Liverpool are now negotiating structure and terms.
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Why Ekitike said yes after one key conversation
During the video chat, Slot outlined his tactical vision, a 4-2-3-1 formation and emphasized the need for a forward with Ekitike’s profile: creative, mobile and able to combine in tight spaces or run deep behind the line.
The report claimed the conversation “seduced” Ekitike, giving Liverpool a key edge in securing his commitment.
Newcastle United had previously seen a £70m bid for Ekitike rejected and following Liverpool’s interest in Isak, they eventually withdrew from the Ekitike race altogether.
That development paved the way for Liverpool to move swiftly.
Meanwhile, Isak was notably left out of Newcastle’s 4-0 preseason defeat to Celtic, a decision Eddie Howe explained was mutual due to growing transfer speculation.
Isak remains fit, according to Howe, but was sent home to avoid media attention.
Liverpool now appear to be closing in on their new No. 9 and Slot’s direct pitch to Ekitike might have made all the difference.
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