Hugo Ekitike faces missing the opening months of Liverpool’s campaign due to a serious injury, though his market worth has continued to rise despite his unavailability.
The France international has been sidelined since tearing his Achilles in April and is not anticipated to return until the end of 2026 or possibly the start of 2027. Despite this extended absence, his estimated transfer value has climbed significantly.
The forward arrived at Anfield from Eintracht Frankfurt in a deal worth £79million last July and made an impressive start to life at the club, finding the net 17 times during his first seven months before suffering the injury setback. Given his demonstrated quality and the fact he has arguably not yet reached his peak at 24 years old, his valuation has increased rather than diminished.
Research conducted by CIES Football Observatories using various assessment methods has calculated his current worth at up to £116million. These valuations take into account broader market trends and the typical fee ranges clubs would be expected to pay for players of a similar profile.
In Ekitike’s situation, his French background means Paris Saint-Germain would likely be among the clubs with the strongest interest, and the six-figure fees agreed for comparable players across Europe lend credibility to the £116million figure.
That valuation could shift depending on when he eventually makes his comeback. Andoni Iraola addressed the status of several long-term injured players during July, with the update on Ekitike proving somewhat discouraging.
The French striker is still several months away from a potential return according to the manager’s assessment, placing him among the furthest from resuming first-team duties.
Two other players on the long-term injury list suffered severe knee problems last season, with Alexander Isak also missing a substantial part of the campaign. The Swedish international will be required for much of the upcoming season given Ekitike’s unavailability, though Iraola has suggested Cody Gakpo could fill the central striking position if needed.
Gakpo is capable of operating as the main forward should he remain at the club. The Dutch international has previously performed that role and could provide cover in that position.
Nevertheless, there is uncertainty over whether the 25-year-old will still be on Merseyside by September, with Tottenham having expressed interest in securing his signature. A potential move for Bradley Barcola from Paris Saint-Germain could create space for Gakpo to depart, though any transfer would likely depend on Liverpool also bringing in attacking reinforcements such as Yankuba Minteh or Ibrahim Mbaye, or possibly both.
Liverpool appear prepared to tackle the new season with a revamped forward line that may feature two summer signings alongside Isak, who could effectively function as a new acquisition if he quickly redisovers his best form.