Liverpool waited until the final moment and struck gold again, showing that the Premier League reigning champions have the power to pry away tomorrow's stars from transfer competitors.

French striker Hugo Ekitike officially joined Liverpool on a six-year deal worth around $140 million plus add-ons, after the Reds swooped in the final moments to steal him from under Newcastle's eyes.

The 23-year-old becomes Liverpool's latest high-profile signing following a Premier League title-winning season that is showing no signs of slowing down.

Mirror Football's Chris McKenna reported that the Reds didn't want a bidding war, giving reason to wait for the Newcastle talks to mature before getting serious.

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Just a week earlier, Ekitike was set to move to Newcastle, who are aiming to add another attacking option alongside Alexander Isak.

Hugo Ekitike completed his transfer to Liverpool

With Salah and Ekitike now set to line up together, Liverpool will field two of the sport's most aggressive and effective creators.

Ekitike made 31 starts and played in 36 matches last season

Hugo Ekitike is expected to join the team on its Asia pre-season tour

The club's next fixture is against AC Milan at Kai Tak Stadium in Hong Kong on July 26, the game that Ekitike is expected to play.

The club's pre-season schedule continues with a matchup against Yokohama F
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