According to French media "Team News", Slot has always been eager to sign a striker like Ekitic.
Ekitic last season had 22 goals and 12 assists in 48 matches in Frankfurt, with goals against Bayern, Dortmund, Leverkusen and Leipzig, and also won strong teams such as Ajax and Tottenham. He is one of the players who created the most opportunities in the five major leagues last season, with an expected number of goals of up to 21.58, and is also the player with the lowest actual number of goals.
Slot believed in Ekitic's ability, but he also understood that players still need to improve their finishing ability. But Slott appreciates Ekitic's selfless spirit, teamwork ability and ability to read games very much. He knows that it is appropriate to pull back or forward, can create space for his teammates or take the initiative to ask for the ball, and can also help the team in the competition. Liverpool also regards this deal as a long-term investment.