According to Prominent Italian Journalist Fabrizio Romano Liverpool Make Move for Striker Dubbed “the Next Haaland” – Seen as Upgrade on Ekitike

Liverpool Eye New Centre-Forward as Attack Evolves Under Arne Slot

Liverpool’s attacking firepower was a major factor in their triumphant 2024/25 Premier League campaign, with their frontline proving difficult for any defense to handle.

Mohamed Salah once again led the charge, finishing the season with an impressive 29 goals and 18 assists in just 38 appearances. His consistent performances were vital for Arne Slot’s squad.

On the left wing, Cody Gakpo and Luis Diaz contributed significantly as well, combining for 23 league goals. However, the central striker position still left room for improvement, with the club looking to strengthen that area ahead of the upcoming season.

As speculation continues over the futures of Darwin Núñez and Diogo Jota, Liverpool could gain substantial funds if either departs. This would potentially allow Slot to secure the high-profile forward he’s been targeting.

Liverpool’s Striker Search Continues

While Alexander Isak has long been considered the ideal candidate, Newcastle United’s £150 million valuation has priced him out of a move. Similarly, Viktor Gyökeres—another prominent target—is reportedly leaning toward joining Arsenal, making his acquisition unlikely.

This has shifted Liverpool’s attention to other options, with RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Šeško emerging as a top candidate. According to journalist James Wathland, Liverpool have already initiated discussions with Šeško’s representatives regarding a summer transfer to Anfield. Arsenal are also believed to be in the race.

The 21-year-old Slovenian striker, fresh off a 21-goal campaign in Germany, is reportedly open to the move, which could give Liverpool an edge in negotiations.

Why Šeško is a Better Fit than Ekitiké

Hugo Ekitiké, currently at Eintracht Frankfurt, is another striker attracting significant Premier League interest. Manchester United, Chelsea, and Liverpool are all linked to the Frenchman, who scored 22 goals across all competitions in 2024/25.

Despite his strong output, Frankfurt’s asking price—around £84 million—could deter potential suitors, including Liverpool. Given this valuation, the Reds may consider alternative targets.

Šeško, who has drawn comparisons to Erling Haaland thanks to his physicality and powerful finishing, could be a more suitable option. Talent scout Jacek Kulig has dubbed him the “next Haaland,” and his performances in the Bundesliga support the hype.

The Slovenian possesses a similar build to the Manchester City forward, is dangerous from distance, and excels in aerial duels. His profile makes him an ideal focal point for Liverpool’s attack, allowing players like Salah, Diaz, and Gakpo to thrive around him.

Šeško’s 2024/25 Bundesliga Stats (per FotMob):

• Appearances: 33

• Goals: 13

• Goals per 90: 0.5

• Shots on Target per Game: 1.2

• Dribble Success Rate: 55%

• Aerial Duels Won: 57%

• Duels Won per Match: 5.1

When compared to Ekitiké, Šeško may have fewer goals, but his efficiency in front of goal and dominance in the air stand out. These qualities make him a more clinical and physical option—traits Liverpool could greatly benefit from.

While both players would bolster the Reds’ forward options, Šeško appears to be the more complete package. If he fulfills his potential in England, much like Haaland did, Liverpool could secure a major long-term asset at a bargain price—boosting their hopes of retaining the Premier League title next season.