Hugo Ekitike caused a stir in dressing room as Liverpool stars told what to expect

Hugo Ekitike is poised to inject a dose of high spirits into Liverpool's dressing room, as per his ex-skipper's words. The French forward is on the brink of joining the Premier League champions after a deal was struck to snatch the Eintracht Frankfurt striker. A £69million initial fee plus £10m in add-ons has been settled between the clubs, with Ekitike having already finalised personal terms with the Reds.

The 23-year-old had an excellent season with the Bundesliga outfit last term, netting 22 goals and providing 12 assists in all competitions. Ekitike's stint in Germany marked his first permanent move away from France. Prior to his 2023 transfer to Paris Saint-Germain, he kicked off his professional journey at Reims, his childhood club.

In 2021, he ventured to Denmark's Vejle on loan during the January window. Although his time there was brief, Vejle's then-captain Jacob Schoop spoke highly of Ekitike's influence - though he said his personality wasn't quite what they're used to in Denmark.

Chatting with BBC Sport, Schoop beamed as he reminisced about Ekitike's time at the club, giving a sneak peek to his future Liverpool team-mates about the vibrant personality they're set to welcome. "He was always in a good mood, and he liked to have some fun in the dressing room," Schoop shared.

"If there was a song on the speaker he would be dancing. That's not really the Danish culture - most of us were more reserved! He was a happy boy, and even though he didn't play as much in the beginning, he trained well and had a really good attitude.

"The joy he had for playing was amazing to see. Even during a tough session, he'd still be laughing, finding fun in beating players one-v-one, or putting in that little bit extra."

Schoop highlighted the player's infectious enthusiasm and undeniable talent, despite only notching three goals and an assist for Vejle. "There was a game against Sonderjyske that if we won, we avoided relegation. Hugo was unbelievable in that game," he said. "That's the sign of a big game player - to step up and find that bit extra."

Ekitike is gearing up for his medical this week before jetting off to Hong Kong to join the Liverpool squad, who have already landed there for a 10-day pre-season tour.