The Hyped Alexander Isak
At present, every Liverpool supporter’s dream seems to be the signing of Alexander Isak, the Swedish ace, to replace Darwin Núñez for the upcoming season. On paper, it’s an understandable desire—Isak is one of the most formidable goal-scorers in the Premier League, and his prowess in front of goal is undeniable. However, a closer look at the data and his recent history paints a slightly different picture. Newcastle United is expected to demand a hefty sum between £120m to £150m for Isak’s services, which is a significant investment for any club, especially one like Liverpool that needs to balance its finances and ambitions. Moreover, Isak has been plagued by a series of niggling injuries, missing nine games this season for both club and country. Over the past two seasons, he has missed 30 games in total, averaging about 15 games out injured per season. These factors, combined with his astronomical asking price, might make it prudent for Liverpool to explore other avenues.
Enter Hugo Ekitike
One such avenue could be Hugo Ekitike, a burgeoning star currently making waves in the Bundesliga with Eintracht Frankfurt. Liverpool has been tracking Ekitike for some time, showing interest in him when he was a teenager playing in Ligue 1 for Reims. Now, he is shaping up to be the perfect candidate for Arne Slot’s system. Ekitike’s goal-scoring threat is evident from his Expected Goals (xG) statistics, with only Harry Kane surpassing him this season in the Bundesliga. His xG stands at 16.2, a remarkable figure for a player still in his prime. While his goal conversion rate of 16.67% leaves room for improvement, it’s worth noting that this aspect of a striker’s game often matures with age. Compare this to Isak, who at the same age as Ekitike had a goal conversion rate of just 8.33% during his time in La Liga with Real Sociedad. Since moving to the Premier League, Isak has improved to a 29.39% goal conversion rate, but Ekitike’s potential for growth is equally promising.
Ekitike’s Versatility and Work Rate
Ekitike is not just a one-dimensional finisher; he is a well-rounded forward who offers significant value off the ball as well. Among his peers in the Bundesliga, he boasts the fifth-highest top speed at 35.53 km/h, utilizing his athletic prowess to consistently press opponents and disrupt their play. On average, he covers more than 11 km per 90 minutes on the pitch, showcasing his stamina and commitment. In defensive actions, Ekitike wins more tackles and interceptions per 90 minutes (0.42 more) than Isak and also averages 1.04 more recoveries per 90. This off-the-ball work is crucial for the high-pressing system that Arne Slot favors, and the marginal differences in performance, when combined with the substantial price gap, make Ekitike a more attractive option.
Technical Prowess and Creative Threat
Beyond his physical and defensive attributes, Ekitike’s technical ability stands out. Unlike Isak, who is more of a traditional no.9, Ekitike can operate in multiple roles and thrive in diverse situations. He averages more than two successful take-ons per 90 minutes, 0.54 more than Isak, and is adept at running at defenses in one-on-one situations. Ekitike also contributes to the team’s attacking play with 3.06 progressive carries and 1.63 carries into the opposition’s penalty area per 90 minutes. His versatility in drifting wide to draw defenders away and create space for his teammates would be a significant asset for Liverpool, especially in a lineup featuring the likes of Dominik Szoboszlai or Mohamed Salah. These creative and technical skills make him a perfect fit for a team that values fluidity and adaptability.
Financial Prudence and Squad Balance
While the allure of a marquee signing like Isak is undeniable, Liverpool has a history of making smart, cost-effective acquisitions. Recall the club’s decision in the summer of 2023 to forego the massive transfer fee for Jude Bellingham, instead opting for Dominik Szoboszlai, Ryan Gravenberch, and Alexis Mac Allister. This strategy allowed the club to build a balanced squad while staying within financial constraints. The same logic applies here: Ekitike represents a more affordable and potentially higher-value option compared to Isak. His transfer fee would likely be a fraction of what Newcastle is demanding, providing Liverpool with the financial flexibility to strengthen other areas of the team. Given the fierce competition in the Premier League and the need for depth and versatility, such a prudent approach could be crucial.
The Ideal Fit for Arne Slot’s System
When considering the broader picture, Ekitike’s numbers and attributes align perfectly with what Arne Slot envisions for his striking position. Slot has emphasized the importance of a no.9 who can not only score goals but also create and facilitate play. Ekitike’s combined xG and xA per 90 minutes (1.02) is significantly higher than Isak’s (0.86), indicating that he is a more potent offensive threat. His younger age and potential for development also add to his appeal. The ability to run at defenses, create space, and contribute to the team’s overall play makes Ekitike an ideal fit for Liverpool’s style. In conclusion, while the dream signing of Isak remains a tempting prospect, the data and practical considerations strongly suggest that Ekitike is the more sensible choice for the Reds.
