Liverpool have made a sensational move for Paris Saint-Germain striker Hugo Ekitike, as the potential departure of club icon Mohamed Salah to the Saudi Pro League appears increasingly likely.
The Reds have formally registered their interest in the 22-year-old French forward, who spent last season on loan at Eintracht Frankfurt. This development signals a significant shift in Liverpool's transfer strategy under new head coach Arne Slot.
Saudi Pursuit of Salah Intensifies
The catalyst for this potential move is the renewed and aggressive pursuit of Mohamed Salah by Saudi Arabian clubs. With just one year remaining on his current contract at Anfield, the Egyptian king could command a fee in the region of £80-100m, providing Liverpool with substantial funds for a rebuild.
Salah, who has been a goal-scoring phenomenon for Liverpool, is seen as the prime target for Saudi officials determined to land a global superstar this summer. The financial power of the Saudi Pro League makes a transfer increasingly probable.
Ekitike: The Potential Heir
Hugo Ekitike represents a different profile of player to Salah, but one that fits the model of a promising young talent with high resale value. Valued at approximately £20m, the Frenchman offers a more financially prudent option compared to other targets like Newcastle's Alexander Isak.
Despite a challenging loan spell in Germany where he managed just four goals, Ekitike's raw talent and potential have clearly impressed Liverpool's recruitment team. His pace, technical ability, and eye for goal make him an intriguing prospect for Slot's system.
Broader Striker Search Continues
While the enquiry for Ekitike is serious, Liverpool's search for attacking reinforcements is multifaceted. The club maintains a strong interest in Newcastle United's Alexander Isak, though the substantial £100m+ asking price presents a significant obstacle.
The pursuit of multiple targets demonstrates Liverpool's preparedness for Salah's potential exit and their determination to not be left short-handed in the attacking third.
What This Means for Liverpool
This potential move signals a new era at Anfield. The possible departure of Salah, a player who has defined Liverpool's attack for seven spectacular seasons, would mark the end of an epoch. Bringing in a young talent like Ekitike would be a characteristically smart piece of business by the Reds' recruitment team, balancing the books while planning for the future.
All eyes will now be on the developments in Saudi Arabia, as the future of one of the Premier League's greatest ever players hangs in the balance.
