‘Liverpool to sign next Karim Benzema’ amid £86m transfer claim – Exclusive
Arne Slot is in the market for a new striker this summer, with Darwin Nunez potentially on his way out.
Liverpool enjoyed an excellent first season under Slot last time out and will be hoping to go one step further in the new campaign.
However, recruitment is set to play a crucial role in deciding whether or not they can achieve that, with several players linked with a move to Anfield.
With that in mind, the Reds have been linked with a move to sign a player likened to former Real Madrid superstar Karim Benzema.
Hugo Ekitike emerges as Liverpool target
Alexander Isak has been the name thrown around Merseyside this summer, though Newcastle’s unwillingness to part with their star player makes that deal highly unlikely.
Instead, the Reds have been linked with Frankfurt striker Ekitike, though Christopher Michel doesn’t expect him to come cheap.
The absolutfussball.de journalist told Liverpool News: “Markus Krösche is very clear in his demand. He wants £86million for Hugo Ekitiké. There are several reasons for this.
“Ekitiké has played a strong season and PSG will receive 15 per cent of the transfer fee over and above the £17m paid for him. That’s why Krösche wants a lot of money.
| Appearances | Goals | Assists |
| 33 | 15 | 8 |
“I see him as a Karim Benzema type of player. Both combine power with finesse. They can play as a lone striker or with a partner. The next step is therefore very important for him. I think Real Madrid should take a closer look at him. Hugo Ekitiké has the skills to play at the very top.
“But Ekitiké is a very intelligent professional. He speaks good English and has not shied away from being loaned out to Denmark during his career. All of this shows that he is subordinating everything to his career.”
Nunez replacement must be sufficient if exit occurs
It’s still unknown as to whether Nunez stays or goes this summer, but it is evident that a good replacement must be identified if he does.
Ekitike would be perfect, and while his price tag may seem hefty, it could prove to be worth it in the long run.
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