Liverpool have reportedly decided not to sign a direct replacement for Hugo Ekitike this summer despite the striker’s serious injury setback.
The Reds were dealt a major blow when Ekitike ruptured his Achilles tendon during the Champions League clash with PSG, with Arne Slot later confirming that the forward had undergone successful surgery.
As the summer approaches, Liverpool’s plans are becoming clearer. The club signed both Alexander Isak and Ekitike last summer, and going back into the market for another expensive striker would always have felt excessive.
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According to a new Telegraph report, that is the verdict Liverpool have now reached.
Liverpool won’t go for another striker with Hugo Ekitike injured
Liverpool are not expected to look for a new centre-forward just because Ekitike is facing a long spell out.
The report claims the Reds are confident that, after successful surgery, the France international will eventually return to the level he was showing before his injury.
It is also said that spending heavily again in the same area would not fit Liverpool’s usual way of working, particularly after such major recent outlay on attacking players. That feels like a sensible stance, even if it does carry some risk.
Ekitike had become a hugely important player for Slot before the injury, especially with Isak also having his own fitness issues across the season. However, Liverpool do still have players who can ease the load.
Jayden Danns is working his way back after his own injury problems, and pre-season now looks like a big chance for him to push himself back into the senior picture. Will Wright is coming through the Liverpool academy and has impressed at Under-21 level. He could be in line for a squad role.
Neither player should be expected to replace Ekitike outright. But they do at least give Slot more internal options while the club waits for the Frenchman to return.
Liverpool still have plenty for Arne Slot to fix this summer
The striker decision is only one part of it. The Telegraph report is framed around five key areas Slot must address, which shows the scale of the job facing Liverpool after a disappointing season.
There are issues to solve elsewhere, and another major striker signing is not the best use of resources.
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Slot needs more balance, more depth and more consistency across the squad. Liverpool cannot afford another season where injuries expose the same frailties.
- READ MORE: Expert study explains why Hugo Ekitike will be just as good when he returns from injury at Liverpool
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