A Real Madrid player covers his face with his hands in frustration while a man with a headset microphone speaks in the foreground inside a stadium full of fans.
Rodrygo and Fabrizio Romano | Camara Enrique Sanz
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Confirmed by Fabrizio Romano: €90M for Rodrygo's rival, he'll be watching very closely

Liverpool is about to make Hugo Ekitike's signing from Eintracht Frankfurt official for €90 million

by

Alex Moreno

Confirmed by Fabrizio Romano, €90 million ($97.8 million) for Rodrygo's rival, will be watching closely

Liverpool is about to make an impactful signing official. Fabrizio Romano has confirmed it: Hugo Ekitike will be a new "Red" player for more than €90 million ($97.8 million).

The French striker arrives from Eintracht Frankfurt. The total deal could reach €95 million ($103.6 million) in add-ons. He signs for six seasons, until June 2031.

Ekitike only wanted to play at Anfield and the English club has replied with one of the strongest moves of the summer.

Rodrygo, watching the move

This signing is no small matter for Rodrygo Goes. The Brazilian, a Liverpool target in the market, sees how the English club is investing a fortune in another striker.

Although Ekitike plays as a "9" and Rodrygo is a winger or second striker, the arrival of the Frenchman could influence Liverpool's transfer moves.

The Brazilian remains on Arne Slot's radar. However, the financial reality prevails: those at Anfield have already spent more than €300 million ($326.7 million) this summer:

  • To the €95 million ($103.6 million) for Ekitike, you have to add the €136 million ($148.1 million) paid for Florian Wirtz, the great German star.
  • Jeremie Frimpong, full-back, for €40 million ($43.6 million)
  • Milos Kerkez, left-back, for €47 million ($51.8 million)
  • Armin Pecsi, Hungarian center-back, for €2 million ($2.2 million)
  • Freddie Woodman, goalkeeper, as a free agent

It's a total expenditure that borders on historic at Anfield.

That's why, in Valdebebas, they're closely following every move. Rodrygo had in mind to listen to offers if he felt he had no place in Xabi Alonso's new Madrid.

Real Madrid player controlling the ball during a match while a coach gives instructions from the sideline
Rodrygo at the Club World Cup | RealMadridConfidencial

Liverpool was one of the main candidates to sign him. However, with Ekitike's signing, the scenario has changed.

Rodrygo can breathe, for now

The Brazilian hasn't been a starter in the Club World Cup. His continuity in the starting eleven is uncertain. However, Ekitike's arrival reduces the immediate chances of Liverpool coming back for him.

Rodrygo is watching. The Premier League still attracts him. However, Slot's moves set a different roadmap. Manchester City, Arsenal, and Bayern Munich remain possible destinations.

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