While Manchester United continue to offload unwanted players and evaluate options in attack, their rivals are wasting no time strengthening ahead of the new season.
Liverpool have begun reshaping their frontline with serious intent, already bringing in German sensation Florian Wirtz to bolster their midfield.
With Luis Diaz looking likely to depart and questions still lingering around Darwin Nunez’s suitability in a central role, the Reds have been working on securing a more complete number 9.
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Meanwhile, United have been preoccupied with trying to resolve the futures of Jadon Sancho, Antony and even Alejandro Garnacho — all of whom could leave depending on offers.
And while United’s transfer department hesitated, Liverpool made their move — and landed a top-class striker the Red Devils were eyeing far too late.
Hugo Ekitike is set to become a Liverpool player in a deal worth around €90 million (£78 million) , bonuses included, after the Eintracht Frankfurt striker made the Anfield club his preferred destination.
According to L’Equipe, Hugo Ekitike had long been on the radar of top Premier League clubs, with Chelsea and Newcastle also trying to lure the 23-year-old.
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But it was a video call with new Liverpool manager Slot that helped seal the deal.
Slot outlined his vision for a new-look Reds attack, with Ekitike at the heart of a dynamic 4-2-3-1 system — the kind of tactical clarity and belief that Manchester United have lacked in recent months.
Ekitike, who once described Karim Benzema as his “model,” was won over by the opportunity to lead the line for a Champions League side with possession-based ambition.
L’Equipe also confirmed that Manchester United tried to step in late, by the time their interest was formalised, Ekitike and his team had already committed fully to Liverpool’s project.
The Frenchman’s entourage told Frankfurt director Markus Krosche to engage solely with Liverpool, closing the door on any other negotiations — United’s included.
As United continue to dither in the market, their rivals are making decisive moves — and this one will sting.
