Chelsea took a peek, Newcastle United tabled a bid, and Manchester United tried to swoop in, yet for Hugo Ekitike, Liverpool was the only club on his mind once they showed interest.

"For me that was the right choice," Ekitike remarked.

I can't define myself only as a striker (who likes) to finish: I like to play, I like to be in the game, in the collective part of play (and) create also.

"So, I can do both – I can play alone and I like to play also with another striker and I think that's what makes me versatile, but you know now in this football you need to adapt."

Why Hugo Ekitike chose Liverpool as Eintracht Frankfurt 'irritated' by transfer approach	Hugo Ekitike explains why he wore a Steven Gerrard shirt before signing for Liverpool	'Settled in': Andy Robertson explains what the squad planned for Hugo Ekitike's first night as a Liverpool player

Ekitike continues: "I always have been playing outside with my friends at school and I have been watching a lot.

"My favorite player is a player who likes to have the ball at their feet and does some skills, show on the pitch, and I think that's why I always like to play with the ball and do some skills when I face other players

Hugo Ekitike meets his new Liverpool teammates for the first time

That's why the fans are pretty happy."

Ekitike joined his new teammates in Hong Kong on Thursday and is set to get some game time in Saturday's friendly against AC Milan, as well as the upcoming match against Yokohama F Marinos in Japan next Wednesday.

The Reds' pre-season preparations will wrap up with a double-header against Athletic Bilbao, and the fresh recruit is eager to experience his first match at his new home ground.

"Yeah, Anfield is mad!" exclaims Ekitike

I think I will start to think when we come and we are going to play there, but it's huge.

"I have seen it on TV and it's crazy: crazy stadium and crazy fans, so I think it's going to be amazing."

* An AI tool was used to add an extra layer to the editing process for this story
For more news relating to Chelsea, visit our sister site Chelsea Latest Live.