Arne Slot’s Video Call Persuasion Seals Hugo Ekitike’s £80m Liverpool Transfer Move
Revealed: How Arne Slot Convinced Hugo Ekitike to Join Liverpool in £80m Deal
By Zac Campbell | Updated: 10:50 BST, 21 July 2025
Liverpool boss Arne Slot personally spearheaded efforts to lure Eintracht Frankfurt striker Hugo Ekitike to Anfield through a pivotal video call, as the Reds close in on an £80million deal.
The 23-year-old French forward, coveted for his creativity and versatility, was reportedly swayed by Slot’s vision for Liverpool’s tactical evolution. According to L’Equipe, Slot outlined plans to transition to a 4-2-3-1 formation, emphasizing Ekitike’s role as a mobile, deep-lying No. 9 capable of linking play and pressing aggressively. The discussion left Ekitike “seduced,” accelerating talks between the clubs.
[Image: Ekitike in action for Frankfurt; caption: Hugo Ekitike’s adaptability made him a top target for Slot’s Liverpool.]
Newcastle United had previously seen a £70m bid rejected, prompting their withdrawal from the race. The Magpies’ exit came amid Liverpool’s simultaneous pursuit of their star striker Alexander Isak, though Newcastle insist the Swede is not for sale. Isak’s omission from Saturday’s 4-0 pre-season loss to Celtic fueled speculation, but manager Eddie Howe clarified: “We mutually agreed he shouldn’t be here due to the scrutiny. He’s trained well, and the noise around him isn’t helpful.”
[Image: Alexander Isak training; caption: Isak’s absence from Newcastle’s friendly ignited Liverpool transfer rumors.]
Ekitike, whose Frankfurt contract includes an £86m release clause, is seen as Liverpool’s priority. Negotiations now focus on the payment structure, with the deal expected to eclipse the club’s previous record signing. Slot’s proactive approach underscores his intent to reshape Liverpool’s attack ahead of the new season, balancing physicality with tactical flexibility.
[Image: Arne Slot during a Liverpool session; caption: Slot’s hands-on role in transfers highlights his strategic overhaul.]
As talks advance, Ekitike’s arrival could signal a new era at Anfield—one defined by Slot’s dynamic, possession-driven philosophy.
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