Liverpool’s £79m Ekitike signing: did PSG sell their gem too soon?

Deal breakdown

Liverpool and Eintracht Frankfurt have agreed a base fee of £69 million, rising to £79 million with add-ons, to secure 23-year-old France U21 international Hugo Ekitike on a six-year contract. The package comprises £69 million upfront and £10 million in potential incentives, making Ekitike one of the most expensive forwards of the window. Last season with Frankfurt, he notched 22 goals and 12 assists across competitions, silencing doubters who questioned his output after limited chances at PSG.

Ekitike will undergo medicals in Liverpool before joining the squad on their Asia pre-season tour, with an expected cameo against AC Milan in Hong Kong, then a full debut against Yokohama F. Marinos. This deal caps a summer that has seen Liverpool spend north of £250 million, following the arrivals of several high-profile young talents.

PSG’s patience that might have paid off

When PSG activated Ekitike’s buy-option from Reims in 2022, hopes were high for a homegrown talent who exploded onto the scene with pace, power and an eye for goal. But over 29 appearances in all competitions for PSG, he managed just four goals, often finding himself behind an attacking pecking order stuffed with world-class names.

A season-long loan back at Frankfurt in 2023–24 revived his confidence, only for PSG to cash in on the €16.5 million option they’d triggered barely giving him time to bridge the gap between potential and production. Given his scoring form in Germany, a more measured approach perhaps another year in Ligue 1 or a rotational role under the current manager might have yielded a fully fledged PSG forward rather than a high-priced sale.

Tactical fit at Anfield

A classic No. 9 in Slot’s system

Arne Slot views Ekitike as the centrepiece of his new front line a player who can spearhead the press, run in behind high lines and link with wide creators. His 22-goal haul last term showcased his ability to finish clinically in the box and threaten on the counter, characteristics Liverpool lacked after dips in form and injury setbacks.

Balancing power and movement

Ekitike’s physicality (1.92 m, strong aerial presence) complements Liverpool’s smaller, faster wide forwards. Last season at Frankfurt, he averaged 0.40 non-penalty expected goals per 90 minutes, hinting at a nose for goal even when chances were scarce. At Anfield, his ability to occupy defenders could free up space for Mohamed Salah, Darwin Núñez or newcomer Florian Wirtz drifting inside.

Fan verdict & next steps

PSG supporters: mixed emotions

On social media, PSG fans are split. Some lament letting a homegrown talent mature elsewhere: “We sold him before he even felt Paris,” one supporter posted. Others shrug, pointing to the club’s relentless hunt for proven stars: “If he’d hit 10 goals in Ligue 1, maybe but PSG need silverware, not potential.” Informal polls show roughly 60 percent believe the sale made financial sense, but 70 percent also think he deserved more time to develop.

Liverpool faithful: optimism reigns

In Liverpool circles, excitement is palpable. Supporters’ message boards praise Slot’s recruitment: “Finally a young striker who can grow with the club,” wrote a Reds fan. The consensus? Ekitike is a statement signing intended to bridge the gap between youthful exuberance and clinical end-product.

What comes next?

PSG’s reinvestment strategy

With around €91 million in hand, PSG will likely refocus on established talents. Rumors link them back to Eduardo Camavinga for midfield dynamism, or a centre-forward upgrade if Kylian Mbappé departs.

Anfield integration

Ekitike must adapt to Liverpool’s relentless work-rate. Early signs in training and pre-season friendlies will be key to slotting him alongside Wirtz, Salah and Dembélé in a fluid front three.

Development arc

At 23, Ekitike is still closer to his ceiling than the final chapter. Consistent game time under Slot’s system could unlock the best version of the France youth international validating Liverpool’s gamble.

Verdict

Liverpool’s investment in Hugo Ekitike reflects a blend of ambition and belief in young talent. For PSG, the sale crystallizes a broader trend: maximizing potential on the pitch sometimes takes a back seat to fiscal pragmatism. Whether Ekitike becomes the marquee No. 9 Liverpool crave and whether PSG rue their early exit will define both clubs’ summers.

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