‘Liverpool risk angering Hugo Ekitike as Alexander Isak dilemma beckons’
Liverpool remain keen on Alexander Isak as Arne Slot looks to round off what would be seen by many as a perfect summer transfer window.
The defending Premier League champions have already strengthened their attack by signing Hugo Ekitike from Frankfurt.
Ekitike proved his worth in the Bundesliga last campaign by scoring 15 goals and producing eight assists in 33 German top-flight appearances.
But Isak could join Liverpool once Newcastle find a replacement for the prolific Sweden international, further boosting the Reds’ chances of enjoying Premier League glory once again.
Ekitike could soon become unhappy with game time at Liverpool
Before Ekitike joined the Anfield giants, Newcastle were also keen on signing the 23-year-old, who still boasts bags of potential.
Isak’s presence at St James’ Park made Liverpool a better destination for the former PSG man than Eddie Howe’s side.
However, Isak did not travel to Singapore on Newcastle’s pre-season tour, highlighting his desire to move to the North West.
If Slot signs the former Real Sociedad striker, Ekitike would be swiftly relegated to his second-choice within the same summer he moved to Anfield.
Meanwhile, the former Frankfurt striker may not play in his secondary position, left wing, amid Cody Gakpo’s presence.
Ekitike will not be satisfied with being a rotation option
Alongside Liverpool’s interest in Liverpool, Darwin Nunez is set to join Al Hilal.
Nunez’s inconsistent performances last term proved that Slot needs a better back-up option to potential acquisition Isak than the Uruguay international.
Meanwhile, Liverpool’s early Champions League exit and their Carabao Cup final defeat to Newcastle prove that they require greater depth in attack despite their Premier League triumph.
| Hugo Ekitike stats | All competitions 2024/25 |
| Appearances | 48 |
| Goals | 22 |
| Assists | 12 |
However, after making 31 starts in the Bundesliga last season, Ekitike will be unhappy with predominantly serving as Isak’s understudy next term.
The 23-year-old has already shown the Anfield faithful his quality by notching an assist in their 3-2 win over Athletic Bilbao in a friendly on Monday, 4 August.
But if Isak prevents Ekitike from making regular Premier League appearances next season, the France Under-21 international could soon regret moving to the North West.
Elsewhere, football finance expert Dan Plumley has backed the Merseyside outfit to close the financial gap on Manchester City in a Liverpool News 247 exclusive.