Liverpool's Transfer Success: Hugo Ekitike Thrives, Florian Wirtz Faces Challenges

Liverpool FC secured a major summer transfer coup by signing Hugo Ekitike from Eintracht Frankfurt for €95 million, marking one of the club's biggest deals alongside Florian Wirtz's €125 million move from Bayer Leverkusen.[1][4] The 23-year-old French forward, previously on loan from PSG, completed his medical and personal terms, joining Arne Slot's squad for pre-season in Hong Kong. With 26 goals in 64 appearances for Frankfurt—including a Bundesliga Team of the Season nod—Ekitike brought proven scoring prowess.[1]

Five-and-a-half months on, Ekitike has shattered expectations, breaking Mohamed Salah's record for the fastest 10 goals at Liverpool. Boasting 11 goals across competitions—including 8 in the Premier League—he's the Reds' top scorer and ended Frankfurt's infamous "transfer curse" that plagued high-profile departures like Randal Kolo Muani.[2][3] Slot praises his improved fitness, defensive work rate, and tactical growth: "He has really worked hard to become fitter... his work rate during games is a big plus for the team."[2] Recently, Ekitike netted in five straight league games, fueling Liverpool's title push despite a unlucky draw against Leeds.[2]

In contrast, Wirtz has endured a rocky adaptation to the Premier League's intensity. Despite hype, early struggles with physicality led to criticism over delayed goals and assists. His bilan is "mixed—he must prove himself further," per analysts.[3] Other big signings like Alexander Isak (€145m from Newcastle) have underperformed with just 3 goals in 16 games.[3][5]

Ekitike joins Frimpong, Kerkez, Mamardashvili, and Wirtz in Slot's €300m+ overhaul, transforming Liverpool's attack. While Wirtz and Isak lag, Ekitike's instant impact—speed, skill, finishing—positions him as the central striker amid Isak's absence. Verdict: Ekitike is a transfer bullseye.[3][4]

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