Liverpool to accelerate attacker search after Ekitike injury
Liverpool are set to accelerate their pursuit of at least two new forwards this summer after a serious injury to striker Hugo Ekitike forced a major rethink of their transfer strategy, according to TEAMtalk sources. The 23-year-old French international suffered a ruptured Achilles tendon during a match against his former club Paris Saint-Germain on Tuesday and is expected to be sidelined for approximately nine months, ruling him out for the rest of the year and this summer's World Cup finals.
Ekitike had established himself as a key figure at Anfield following his £79 million move from Eintracht Frankfurt last summer, contributing over 20 goal involvements and providing crucial cover for record signing Alexander Isak. Manager Arne Slot and teammate Ibrahima Konate were among those to send messages of support following the devastating setback. The injury has prompted Liverpool's recruitment team to reassess their attacking depth ahead of the new season, with plans now focusing more heavily on reinforcing the frontline.
One player who has returned to the forefront of Liverpool's considerations is Newcastle United's Anthony Gordon. The versatile forward, who has impressed with his performances across the front line this season, is understood to be a serious target. Sources indicate that Bayern Munich and Arsenal have also made contact with Gordon's representatives, but the player has previously expressed a desire to play at Anfield. Liverpool had already been planning for life after Mohamed Salah, with wide players like Yan Diomande and Francisco Conceicao on their radar, but Ekitike's absence has expanded the scope of their search.
Everton's Iliman Ndiaye remains a player of firm interest to Liverpool, though a move for the forward from their city rivals is considered problematic. With the club now exploring the possibility of two attacking additions, other names under consideration include West Ham's Jarrod Bowen, Fulham's Harry Wilson, and Stuttgart's Bazoumana Toure. The need for increased firepower comes as Slot conceded that Liverpool are 'coming towards the end of the cycle' with some senior players, though he offered a positive message regarding the club's transfer plans.
In other developments, Fabrizio Romano has revealed the issue holding up a new contract for defender Ibrahima Konate, while TEAMtalk sources indicate progress in talks to secure Dominik Szoboszlai on an improved deal amid interest from Real Madrid. Liverpool have also been linked with a move for a Bundesliga star available via a modest release clause this summer. The injury to Ekitike, a cornerstone of their attack, has ensured that strengthening the forward line will be the central pillar of Liverpool's strategy in the upcoming transfer window.
