Newcastle United are working on a club-record deal to sign Eintracht Frankfurt striker Hugo Ekitike.
The Magpies are hoping it is third time lucky when it comes to Ekitike after he twice turned down a move to St James’ Park in 2022 before joining Paris Saint-Germain.
After just one season in Paris, Ekitike fell out with head coach Luis Enrique and later moved to Frankfurt, initially on loan before completing a permanent transfer last summer. And the 23-year-old has gone to flourish in Germany, scoring 22 goals and providing 12 assists last season.
Liverpool and Manchester United have shown interest in Ekitike but Newcastle are leading the chase after opening talks with Frankfurt and the player’s representatives.
According to Fabrizio Romano, Eddie Howe’s side have submitted a bid in excess of £60m. An agreement, if reached, will go above the £63million paid for Alexander Isak in August 2022.
Should Ekitike sign, he’ll replace Callum Wilson, who has left the club following the expiry of his contract. The plan is for the Frenchman to rotate and play alongside Isak rather than replace the Swede, who has been linked with Liverpool.
Newcastle have already completed the £55m signing of Anthony Elanga and will aim for more additions regardless of what happens with Ekitike.
Just for fun, we take a look at Newcastle’s dream XI for their Premier League opener away to Aston Villa on Saturday, August 16.
5. LB: Lewis Hall
Foot surgery in March cut short what was an outstanding campaign for the 20-year-old. Once he’s back, Hall won’t only be a regular for Newcastle but for England as well. | Getty Images
6. CM: Sandro Tonali
A move to the No.6 role in December last year and Tonali hasn’t looked back. The Italian has been a revelation and, in many ways, transformed the team. | Getty Images
7. CM: Bruno Guimaraes
Appointed captain last summer, the Brazilian has taken to the role by storm after leading Newcastle to their first domestic trophy in 70 years. Bruno leads by example, both on and off the pitch. | Getty Images
8. RM:: Anthony Elanga
Direct and rapid, Elanga is regarded as a perfect signing for Eddie Howe and welcome competition for Jacob Murphy. | Getty Images