Liverpool's N143b new signing temporarily inherits shirt number worn by Sheyi Ojo

Liverpool have confirmed the signing of France U21 international Hugo Ekitiké from German Bundesliga outfit Eintracht Frankfurt, subject to international clearance.

The 23-year-old has earned himself a move to the European giants after contributing 40 goals (26 goals, 14 assists) in 64 matches for Eintracht Frankfurt.

Although the transfer fee has not been disclosed, The BBC reported that Ekitiké has joined the Reds for an initial £69m (approximately N143 billion in Nigerian currency).

Before linking up with the Liverpool first team in Hong Kong, the Premier League champions confirmed that their brand new signing has been allocated the number 54 jersey for the time being.

The previous owner of Liverpool's number 54 shirt was 2017 England U20 World Cup-winning forward of Nigerian descent Sheyi Ojo, who wore it in the 2021-2022 campaign.

Ojo, once targeted by the Nigeria Football Federation, also wore the number 54 when he made his Premier League debut against Southampton in March 2016.

The English-Nigerian attacker was considered a great talent at the Reds, with former manager Jurgen Klopp handing him game time in thirteen matches and he delivered by directly participating in four goals. 

During Ojo's stint with Liverpool, he took in loan spells at Wigan Athletic, Wolverhampton Wanderers, Fulham, Reims, Rangers, Cardiff City and Millwall between 2015 and 2022.

The likes of Liam Hughes and Tony Gallacher have worn Liverpool's number 54 shirt in the past.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

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