Liverpool lands Ekitike in £69m deal as summer spendings soar past £250m

Liverpool has finalized the high-profile acquisition of Eintracht Frankfurt striker Hugo Ekitike in a deal valued at an initial £69 million, pending international clearance. The 23-year-old French international has successfully completed his medical examinations and agreed to personal terms, making him the latest major addition to the Reds' squad this summer.

Ekitike is expected to fly out later this week to join Liverpool's pre-season tour of Asia, integrating with his new teammates ahead of the upcoming campaign. Eintracht Frankfurt had accepted an offer from Liverpool earlier this week totaling £79 million, comprising £69 million guaranteed plus an additional £10 million in performance-related add-ons.

This significant transfer pushes Liverpool's already substantial summer spending past the £250 million mark. The club previously secured Florian Wirtz in a potential British record deal worth £116 million. Additionally, defenders Milos Kerkez and Jeremie Frimpong have joined the Anfield ranks for a combined fee of £70 million, signaling a comprehensive overhaul of the squad.

Liverpool's move for Ekitike comes after Newcastle United reportedly had a £70 million bid for the striker rejected earlier this month, highlighting the keen competition for his signature. Interestingly, Liverpool has also shown interest in Newcastle's own prolific striker, Alexander Isak.

Ekitike enjoyed a sensational season with Frankfurt, scoring 15 goals in 31 starts and providing eight assists as the club finished third in the Bundesliga. His impressive scoring record was bettered by only five players in the German top flight last season, and he led the league with 117 shots on goal, demonstrating his consistent attacking threat.

Frankfurt sporting director Markus Krosche expressed his delight at the transfer, stating, "Hugo has developed tremendously in his one and a half years with us and has been a true asset to our team and the entire club both on and off the pitch. We are delighted that he can now take the next step – a step he has earned through his performances with us."