Florian Wirtz is set to undergo his medical on Friday, and Liverpool fans now appear increasingly confident that the club will secure his signature.
Amid speculation about a staggering transfer fee, the Bayer Leverkusen star is expected to join Liverpool for an initial sum of £100 million, with the potential for an additional £16 million in performance-based bonuses.
There is little doubt that Arne Slot is eager to integrate the German playmaker into his squad, with Wirtz’s arrival promising to inject genuine world-class talent into a team aiming to defend their Premier League crown.
Naturally, Liverpool must now find a centre-forward capable of capitalising on the creative brilliance Wirtz will bring in the number ten role. With Darwin Nunez expected to depart—his links to clubs in Serie A gaining momentum—the search becomes more urgent.
A variety of names have surfaced as potential replacements, but Hugo Ekitike has stood out as the most prominent in recent weeks.
In need of a new striker, Liverpool have identified Eintracht Frankfurt’s Ekitike as an ideal option—not only because of his growing reputation as a clinical finisher but also due to his well-rounded skillset, combining power, creativity, and style.
Last season, the 22-year-old completed his first full campaign in the Bundesliga, registering 22 goals and 12 assists in 48 appearances across all competitions.
Praised for his subtle first touch, unselfish link-up play, and sharp off-the-ball intelligence, Ekitike has demonstrated what one French journalist described as a “very complete offensive range.”
Football analyst Ben Mattinson has also described Ekitike as “one of the best strikers out there,” though he acknowledges that the most coveted forward remains out of reach this summer. Still, Liverpool have not abandoned hope of landing their ideal number nine.
Liverpool Still Pursuing Ekitike Alternative
According to Ian Doyle of the Liverpool Echo, Liverpool remain strong admirers of Alexander Isak and are closely monitoring the Newcastle United striker’s current situation.
While David Ornstein of The Athletic recently reported that the 25-year-old is unlikely to leave this summer following Newcastle’s return to the Champions League, Liverpool’s hierarchy are exploring ways to generate funds through player sales, with plenty of time left in the transfer window.
Newcastle, for their part, have made it clear they do not intend to sell. Isak is regarded as Eddie Howe’s standout player and has been given a valuation in excess of £150 million.
Why Alexander Isak Would Be Ideal
Isak is regarded as one of the Premier League’s top performers, with analyst Raj Chohan even calling him “the best striker in the world” following a standout 2024/25 season.
Newcastle acquired the Swedish forward from Real Sociedad three years ago in a record £63 million deal. Since then, Isak has overcome earlier injury setbacks to deliver his best campaign to date, registering 27 goals and six assists across 42 appearances in all competitions.
In league play, his 23 goals placed him just behind Mohamed Salah. According to Sofascore, Isak missed only 18 big chances and also created 11 clear-cut opportunities for his teammates, suggesting he would complement Salah and others by adding depth and variety to Liverpool’s attacking approach.
While his goal tally is impressive, Liverpool’s interest stems more from his overall qualities. Isak’s game is built on a blend of technique, intelligence, and versatility that extends beyond just finishing chances.
His strength and physical resilience—when fit—have helped him evolve into one of the most complete forwards in world football. His winning goal against Liverpool in the Carabao Cup final at Wembley in March further demonstrated his calibre on the big stage.
That particular performance may well have convinced FSG of his suitability, with talk of a possible move to Anfield circulating ever since that encounter.
It’s no great shock that Liverpool are looking at this profile of striker. Interestingly, data from FBref suggests that Hugo Ekitike shares numerous statistical traits with Isak.
A deeper comparison between the two might shed light on Liverpool’s recruitment priorities.
| Alexander Isak vs Hugo Ekitike (24/25) | ||
|---|---|---|
| Stats (per 90) | Isak | Ekitike |
| Goals scored | 0.75 | 0.53 |
| Assists | 0.20 | 0.28 |
| Shots taken | 3.10 | 4.00 |
| Shot-creating actions | 3.00 | 3.55 |
| Touches (att pen) | 6.17 | 6.88 |
| Progressive passes | 2.87 | 1.86 |
| Progressive carries | 2.71 | 3.27 |
| Successful take-ons | 1.37 | 1.83 |
| Ball recoveries | 1.80 | 3.06 |
| Tackles + interceptions | 0.49 | 0.81 |
| Data Source: FBref | ||
Interestingly, Ekitike tends to be more involved when it comes to carrying the ball forward and making defensive recoveries. He also attempts shots more frequently, with his expected goals (xG) averaging 0.76 per 90 minutes.
In comparison, Isak’s xG sits at 0.66 per 90, indicating that he often scores more goals than the quality of his chances might suggest, showcasing his efficiency in front of goal.
It’s unlikely both players will be brought in under Arne Slot, but acquiring either one would be a significant addition. Still, given how closely Ekitike mirrors Isak in playing style, it could be argued that he’s more of a replica—emulating the Swede’s approach without producing quite the same level of impact.
Standing at 6 foot 3, Isak brings considerable experience as a proven striker in the Premier League, which naturally drives up his market value.
Whether Liverpool would be willing to meet a £150 million asking price is uncertain. That figure may be inflated, especially considering that Wirtz was previously rumoured to be valued at €150 million (£127 million) before Liverpool revealed a deal far more modest than that, leaving clubs like Chelsea and Arsenal with larger individual outlays.
Spending close to £100 million again in the same window would be a major financial commitment for FSG. However, the club’s ownership has built a model focused on self-sufficiency and long-term success. With the right sales, another marquee signing might just be feasible.
In other news, Fabrizio Romano Reveals What Liverpool Have ‘Already’ Done in Latest Hugo Ekitike Update