'I don't care!' - Hugo Ekitike feeling no pressure over £79m Liverpool price tag as in-form striker explains why he snubbed Newcastle transfer

Ekitike was linked with several clubs, including Newcastle United, before making his way to Merseyside. Liverpool dug deep in order to get a deal done with Eintracht Frankfurt. The Reds went on to spend a further £125m ($169m) on Swedish striker Alexander Isak.

Ekitike now faces fierce competition for places and added expectation after registering four goals through seven appearances for Liverpool. He is taking everything in his stride, telling Canal+ when asked about how much he cost: “I don't care. I'm just focused on the game. Outside, everyone can talk about the transfer price. It is what it is. Football has changed.”

He went on to say of choosing Liverpool, with Isak arriving from Newcastle a matter of weeks later: “It was my choice, it's what I wanted. Because I had more of a feeling coming here and I knew it was the right time and the right place for me. I wanted to get back to the top level and come back this time better equipped, more ready in all aspects. And I don't think I made a mistake.”

Ekitike has previously spent time with Paris Saint-Germain, but hit just four goals for them through 33 appearances. His impact at Liverpool has surprised some, but not the man himself. He added: “Obviously, seen from the outside, it can be shocking, but it doesn't shock me. I was in a dynamic where I was also making stats last year and I'm in a good team that seems good to me. I want to be a player who has consistency.”

Ekitike has helped Liverpool to enjoy a perfect start to the 2025-26 campaign, through Premier League and Champions League competition. His latest goal for the Reds helped to secure a 2-1 derby victory over Merseyside neighbours Everton.