Liverpool Eyes Ekitike Amidst Transfer Maneuvers, Squad Number Dilemma Looms
New Striker Faces Awkward Conversation with Mohamed Salah Over Iconic Jersey
Liverpool’s summer transfer activity is heating up as the club reportedly shifts focus to Eintracht Frankfurt striker Hugo Ekitike, following a reported world-record bid for Newcastle’s Alexander Isak being met with resistance.
Ekitike Emerges as Liverpool’s Alternative Target
With Newcastle United appearing unwilling to part with their star forward Alexander Isak, who netted 23 goals in 34 Premier League appearances last season, Liverpool is understood to have turned their attention to Hugo Ekitike. While no official offer has been submitted for the French striker, his potential arrival at Anfield presents an interesting logistical challenge.
Should a move for Ekitike materialize, particularly after a reported £120 million bid for Isak, Liverpool is expected to table an offer exceeding the £70 million bid Newcastle previously rejected. Frankfurt’s reported willingness to accept an £85 million deal suggests negotiations could be swift.
Squad Number Showdown: Ekitike vs. Salah
A significant hurdle for any potential Ekitike signing involves his preferred squad number. The young striker currently dons the number 11 jersey at Eintracht Frankfurt, a number famously and consistently worn by Liverpool legend Mohamed Salah. This presents an awkward situation for the new recruit, who would likely need to convince Salah to relinquish the iconic shirt or select an alternative.
Potential No. 9 Opportunity for Ekitike
The departure of Darwin Nunez from Liverpool this summer is becoming increasingly probable, with links to the Saudi Pro League and Napoli persisting. The potential vacancy of the number 9 shirt, a traditional number for a lead striker, could offer Ekitike a more straightforward and fitting choice should he join Arne Slot‘s squad.
In the past five seasons, Liverpool’s primary striker has consistently worn the number 9, highlighting its significance within the club’s attacking hierarchy. For example, Roberto Firmino had a successful tenure wearing the number 9.