Jurgen Klopp has suggested that Hugo Ekitike could surpass Mohamed Salah's Liverpool goals record if he remains at the club for the next decade. Salah, who announced he will leave Anfield this summer by mutual consent, is the third-highest scorer in Liverpool's history with 255 goals, behind only Roger Hunt (285) and Ian Rush (346).
Ekitike, who joined Liverpool from Frankfurt, has scored 17 goals in his debut season. To beat Salah's tally, he would need to average 25 goals per year for ten years, a feat Klopp acknowledged would be difficult. Speaking to The Anfield Wrap, Klopp said: 'We may sit here in 10 years, maybe Ekitike [will break his record] but it will be difficult.'
Klopp also addressed reports that he originally wanted to sign Julian Brandt instead of Salah in 2017. He clarified that the club spoke to both players but were convinced Salah was the right choice. 'We were 100 per cent convinced he was the one,' Klopp said.
Salah's departure marks the end of an era. Despite a difficult season, he has been praised for his achievements, including four Golden Boots and three PFA Player of the Year awards. Klopp expressed hope that Salah would enjoy the rest of the season, adding: 'One of the all-time greats will leave the club in the summer.'
