Hugo Ekitike to Liverpool: What You Need to Know | OneFootball

Liverpool are reportedly eyeing a move for French striker Hugo Ekitike, a name that has sparked intrigue among fans and pundits alike. The 23 year old forward, once touted as one of France’s most promising attacking prospects, could be set for a fresh start on Merseyside. But what would such a transfer mean for the Reds, and does Ekitike fit into Arne Slot’s system? Here’s what you need to know.

Who is Hugo Ekitike?

Born in Reims, France, Ekitike emerged through the Stade de Reims youth system and broke into the first team during the 2021–22 season. His blend of pace, technical ability, and composure in front of goal quickly drew comparisons to Kylian Mbappé, especially after he netted 10 goals in Ligue 1 that year. His performances earned him a move to Paris Saint-Germain in 2022, initially on loan and then permanently. He then joined Eintracht Frankfurt in January 2024, initially on loan, before finalising a permanent move to the Bundesliga club the following summer.

Breaking Through at Reims

Hugo Ekitike’s breakthrough at Stade de Reims during the 2021/2022 season marked him as one of Europe’s most exciting young strikers. Following his graduation from the club’s academy, the French Striker made his Ligue 1 debut, showcasing a rare blend of flair, composure, and instinctive finishing rarely seen in a teenager. Despite Reims’ modest stature in the French top flight, the 23 year old scored 10 goals in just 24 league appearances, showcasing a poacher’s instinct alongside technical finesse and intelligent movement. His ability to exploit space behind defences and contribute creatively in buildup play made him stand out, quickly attracting interest from top clubs across Europe and laying the foundation for a high-profile move to Paris Saint-Germain.

What Went Wrong at PSG?

Despite his early promise, Ekitike struggled to find his footing in the star-studded PSG squad. Competition from the likes of Kylian Mbappé, Neymar, and later Gonçalo Ramos left him with limited game time. He made just a handful of starts and failed to build momentum, eventually being sidelined from the first team picture altogether. In the 2023/24 season, he made no league appearances and was loaned to Eintracht Frankfurt in January.

OSAKA, JAPAN – JULY 28: Hugo Ekitike of Paris Saint-Germain celebrates scoring his side’s first goal during the preseason friendly match between Cerezo Osaka and Paris Saint-Germain at Yanmar Stadium Nagai on July 28, 2023 in Osaka, Japan. (Photo by Kenta Harada/Getty Images)

How Ekitike Became a Hit at Eintracht Frankfurt

The move to Eintracht Frankfurt helped the young French Striker to rediscover his confidence and the freedom that made him one of Ligue 1’s brightest young talents.

FRANKFURT AM MAIN, GERMANY – MARCH 01: Hugo Ekitike of Frankfurt in action during the Bundesliga match between Eintracht Frankfurt and Bayer 04 Leverkusen at Deutsche Bank Park on March 01, 2025 in Frankfurt am Main, Germany. (Photo by Simon Hofmann/Getty Images)

After a frustrating spell on the fringes at PSG, the French forward thrived in the Bundesliga’s more open, attacking environment. Under Frankfurt’s progressive, counter-attacking system, Ekitike’s intelligent movement, link-up play, and sharp finishing stood out. He quickly adapted to the league’s physicality and tempo, scoring important goals and becoming a focal point in the final third.

More importantly, he showed a renewed hunger and work ethic, winning over both fans and coaching staff with his performances and attitude. The Frenchman has scored 26 goals as well as adding 14 assists during his 62 appearances in all competitions for the German side.

Playing Style and Strengths

Ekitike is a versatile forward who can play through the middle or drift wide. He’s known for his movement off the ball, calm finishing touch, quick bursts of acceleration, technical flair, and close control in tight spaces.

At his best, he combines the attributes of a modern forward, intelligent runs, the ability to link play, and flashes of creativity, as well as being able to put the ball in the net, arguably the most important attribute for a centre forward.

Why Liverpool?

With the future of several Liverpool attackers uncertain, particularly Darwin Núñez’s inconsistency and likelihood of moving on, along with the tragic loss of Diogo Jota, the french striker could represent a smart investment. At 23, he fits Liverpool’s tradition of signing young talent with high ceilings.

Ideally, under Slot’s guidance, the player could continue his form in a more structured, demanding environment. Ekitike’s pressing and mobility also align with Liverpool’s style. Although he is not a traditional No. 9, his ability to function in fluid attacking roles could make him an asset in a flexible front three.

Risks and Considerations

The risk of signing Ekitike is undeniable. His lack of consistent football over the course of his career to date raises fitness and sharpness concerns, although Liverpool may have been swayed as Ekitike managed 48 appearances for Frankfurt last term.

Given that the signing likely requires a long-term perspective rather than an immediate impact, the Reds may need to exercise patience. However, given the outcome of his final year in the Bundesliga, it’s not implausible that Ekitike makes an immediate impact.

He’s set to move to a Liverpool side that will surround him with better players, and having shown what he’s capable of in Germany, that is an exciting prospect. The price tag, reported to be around the £70 million mark, might reflect that risk. However, for a club known for turning raw potential into elite performance, the reward could be substantial. There’s no doubt that the Merseysiders have an excellent footballer on their hands.

How Does The Future Look for Liverpool’s Latest Addition

If Liverpool are indeed serious about Hugo Ekitike, it would be a calculated risk with potentially high upside. While he may not arrive as the signing many Reds had hoped for, as the Reds had been linked with a move for Newcastle’s Aleksander Isak in the days prior to their move for Ekitike, he has the attributes to flourish in Arne Slot’s system.

Regardless of whether it’s a depth move or a long-term replacement for one of Liverpool’s more established stars—which, considering the price tag, you would hope—Ekitike is undoubtedly someone to keep an eye on.