Hugo Ekitike breaks silence on snubbing Newcastle for Liverpool
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Hugo Ekitike to LiverpoolHugo Ekitike speaks on his transfer to Merseyside to join up with Arne Slot’s Reds in the summer transfer window and his feelings on move to the reigning PL champions.
The 23-year-old was the subject of interest from several clubs across Europe and in England, with Newcastle United, Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester United all linked with a move for the French striker.
Newcastle had long identified Ekitike as a primary target to bolster their attacking options ahead of a campaign in the UEFA Champions League and English Premier League.
The Magpies even opened discussions for a possible transfer of the striker to Tyneside; however, he opted for a move to Liverpool instead.
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When speaking to Footmercato, Ekitike said: “Why Liverpool instead of Newcastle?
“Because I had a better feeling coming here, and I knew it was the right time and the right place for me.”
“I wanted to return to the top level better prepared, stronger in every way and I believe I made the right choice.”
The striker has already notched up four goals and one assist in his first seven games in England, and it appears he made the right decision to swoop for the kings of England.
The striker’s current club could have been a lot different if he had moved to St.
James’ Park to link up with Eddie Howe’s Newcastle during the transfer window.
Discussions were held between Eintracht Frankfurt and the Tyneside-based club in Germany, with more meetings held in Austria during Newcastle’s pre-season training camp.
Liverpool, who have been keeping an eye out on the forward’s progress since his time at Reims in Ligue 1, caused a turning point when Arne Slot outlined his plans to incorporate Ekitike into his title-winning PL side.
Hugo Ekitike joined the Reds in a deal worth an initial £69 million, with an additional £10 million in potential add-ons, despite earlier signs pointing to a possible move to the North East.
He also scored what ultimately proved to be the winning goal in Saturday’s Merseyside Derby against Everton, a goal that only accustoms him more to the Kop faithful, who were heard chanting Ekitike’s name during the match.
Liverpool fans have a strong belief that he will be an integral member of the team this season, despite the headline-grabbing arrival of Alexander Isak from Newcastle United.
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