Liverpool are gearing up to defend their Premier League crown when the 2025/26 campaign kicks off in just over a month. With Arne Slot now fully settled in the dugout, the Reds are entering a new era, blending continuity with key reinforcements.
While fans have waved goodbye to Trent Alexander-Arnold, they’ve welcomed marquee signings like Jeremie Frimpong, Milos Kerkez, and Florian Wirtz. The latter, in particular, signals a bold statement of intent from the club’s hierarchy.
Liverpool’s board are backing Slot’s vision
For a club at the top, strengthening while ahead is crucial. Too often, teams become complacent, only investing once form begins to drop. Liverpool’s board, however, have stayed proactive. Despite occasional fan criticism, the ownership group continues to invest at key moments.
Slot initially took a cautious approach, choosing to work with the squad he inherited. That decision paid off with a dominant title-winning season. Now, with the Dutchman more entrenched, Liverpool are targeting elite-level additions to push for sustained success across all competitions.
Room must be made for new arrivals
Naturally, squad evolution requires tough decisions. To make way for new signings, departures are inevitable. One potential exit that continues to make headlines is Darwin Nunez.
Despite flashes of brilliance, the Uruguayan striker has struggled with consistency, often frustrating fans and coaches alike with his decision-making and finishing. If the right offer arrives, Liverpool may be tempted to move on.
Ekitike fits the bill
Enter Hugo Ekitike. The 23-year-old French striker, currently at Eintracht Frankfurt, has emerged as a prime candidate to fill the gap should Nunez depart. Ekitike combines pace, technique, and positional intelligence.
Having previously been linked with PSG and Newcastle, Ekitike’s potential has never been in question. What’s changed is his maturity and finishing consistency. Last season, he netted 18 goals in all competitions for Frankfurt and registered 7 assists, showing significant improvement in his all-round play.
Why he’s the right profile
Ekitike doesn’t just offer goals. His movement off the ball, willingness to press, and ability to combine in tight spaces make him a modern forward. Unlike Nunez, whose style sometimes feels chaotic, Ekitike plays with more composure, fitting Slot’s structured system better.
He also plays as a central striker or wide forward. That could be crucial in a Liverpool front line that includes the likes of Wirtz, Diaz, Jota, and Salah.
The right time for change
If Liverpool are serious about maintaining their dominance, refreshing the squad with players who align better with the manager’s style is essential. Ekitike might not be a household name just yet, but his profile suggests he could be the ideal long-term solution.
With preseason approaching and key decisions looming, all eyes will be on Anfield to see whether the Reds cash in on Nunez, and whether Ekitike steps through the door as the next striker to lead the line.
