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Liverpool may as well break the bank for Alexander Isak if German reports on Hugo Etikite and his price tag are to be believed.

Ekitike has enjoyed a breakout season in the Bundesliga and Europa League, scoring 21 goals across all competitions.

A standout moment came in Frankfurt’s recent 1-1 draw against Tottenham in the Europa League quarter-finals, where he curled a precise finish past goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario.

The suggestion is that the Reds view him as a long-term solution to their attacking inconsistencies, particularly amid concerns over Darwin Nunez’s finishing and Diogo Jota’s injury history.

Frankfurt initially set a €80m  price tag, but Ekitike’s form and demand have driven valuations upward.

According to German outlet BILD, Frankfurt now wants a staggering €90-100m if they are to part ways with the Frenchman in the summer.

The situation mirrors Liverpool’s cooled pursuit of Alexander Isak, whom Newcastle values at over £120 million.

One could argue Ekitike’s younger age (22 vs. Isak’s 25) and lower wage demands still make him a pragmatic target, but the narrowing price gap tests the club’s resolve.

The Bundesliga club remains confident of securing this fee following Ekitike’s outstanding performances this season.

Having signed the French forward for only €20 million, Frankfurt is poised to make a substantial profit should their asking price be met.

The increase in Hugo Ekitike’s valuation cis attributed to his continued development following the departure of his strike partner Omar Marmoush to Manchester City during the winter transfer window.

Hugo Ekitike?

Based on 3019 minutes played [FBref].

Ekitike’s combination of physical presence (standing at 189 cm) and technical ability makes him an ideal fit for Arne Slot’s tactical demands.

Slot favors forwards who are capable of both finishing chances and facilitating attacking moves, and Ekitike’s profile aligns perfectly with these requirements.

His off-ball movement and tendency to drift to the left to link play are reminiscent of Darwin Núñez’s role, but Ekitike demonstrates superior decision-making in key moments.

Defensively, Ekitike contributes significantly to pressing intensity, a cornerstone of Slot’s high-energy system.

His average of 2.3 tackles per 90 minutes places him in the 85th percentile among forwards, showcasing his ability to disrupt opposition play while maintaining offensive output—a crucial attribute for Liverpool’s style of play.

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