Liverpool are exploring a bold move for Paris Saint-Germain's young striker Hugo Ekitike as part of their long-term planning for the post-Mohamed Salah era, according to exclusive reports.
Unexpected Target Emerges
In what would represent a significant shift in transfer strategy, the Merseyside club have identified the 22-year-old French forward as a potential addition to their attacking ranks. Ekitike, who spent last season on loan at Eintracht Frankfurt, finds himself on the periphery at PSG and could be available for transfer.
Salah's Uncertain Future
The interest in Ekitike comes amid ongoing speculation about Mohamed Salah's long-term future at Anfield. The Egyptian superstar, who has been the cornerstone of Liverpool's attack for seven seasons, continues to attract interest from Saudi Arabian clubs, with Al-Ittihad previously making a substantial £150 million bid.
Despite Liverpool's firm stance in rejecting previous approaches, club officials are understood to be planning for various scenarios, including the possibility of Salah's departure either in January or next summer.
Ekitike's Profile and Potential
The young Frenchman represents an intriguing option for Liverpool's recruitment team. Standing at 6ft 2in, Ekitike combines physical presence with technical ability and has shown flashes of the potential that prompted PSG to sign him from Reims in 2022.
While his loan spell at Frankfurt yielded only modest returns, Liverpool's scouts are believed to see untapped potential in the player, who fits the profile of the type of forward the club has successfully developed in recent years.
Strategic Planning Underway
Liverpool's interest signals a proactive approach to squad building under new sporting director Richard Hughes and the strategic leadership of Michael Edwards. The club appears determined to avoid being caught unprepared should Salah eventually depart.
"This isn't about replacing Salah directly," a source close to the club explained. "It's about building a squad capable of evolving and maintaining competitiveness regardless of individual departures."
The potential move for Ekitike would likely represent a value-driven opportunity rather than a blockbuster signing, aligning with Liverpool's reputation for smart recruitment in the transfer market.
