The sporting director has been keen so far this summer for Liverpool and with pre-season right around the corner, he will be looking to wrap any deals up as soon as possible.

Arne Slot will be hoping for the same thing as he looks to upgrade his squad, with one of the positions high up on his wish list being a striker.

Darwin Nunez is set to leave Liverpool and vacate the number nine shirt, with many fans praying that it will be left free for a huge new arrival.

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However, this could very easily be the case as, although no striker would come cheap, there is one in particular who may still end up a Liverpool player by the end of the summer.

Photo by Vince Mignott/DeFodi Images/DeFodi via Getty Images

An out-and-out goalscorer is what Liverpool have been lacking through the middle for quite a few years, with the club very reliant on the goals Mohamed Salah provides.

This is why they desperately want a new striker and Hugo Ekitike is a player they were linked with, although rumours have slightly died down.

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However, Fabrizio Romano has recently confirmed that the Reds still want the Frenchman and that people should not rule them out of the race.

“Don’t forget how Liverpool are in the story for Hugo Ekitike,” Romano said on his YouTube channel.

“Liverpool are waiting to find a solution for Darwin Nunez and with him leaving, Ekitike is a concrete target.

READ MORE: Forget Hugo Ekitike, Liverpool should be taking note of another ‘special’ Bundesliga striker

“They have already spoken to the agent of the player at the end of May, they are in regular contact with people close to Ekitike, and he remains a player on Liverpool’s list.

“I know they are rumours of several clubs in for this talented striker, but do not forget Liverpool because they are still there.”

Granted, most strikers unproven in the Premier League are classed as risky, but Ekitike feels more than most.

After failing to make an impression at PSG a few seasons back, the Frenchman also struggled during his first campaign in the Bundesliga, with last season his first proper breakout year.

2024/25 StatsHugo EkitikeAppearances 48Goals22Assists12Stats from Transfermarkt and correct as of 17/06/25

The fact Chelsea and Manchester United also want him could also be a bad sign for the Reds given how bad they have recruited in this area of the pitch over the last few years.

The £85m asking price is also extortionate and there are other options out there for cheaper, although if Liverpool do sign Ekitike, it would also be no surprise to see him hit the ground running – proving just how 50/50 this transfer really could go.


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