Striker who agreed to join Newcastle United officially completes £14m transfer

The 22-year-old spent the second-half of last season on loan in Germany, netting four goals in 16 appearances. The move came after he was frozen out at Paris Saint-Germain by manager Luis Enrique.

Ekitike’s switch included a £14m purchase option, which was triggered by Frankfurt in April. But similar to Newcastle’s Lewis Hall situation, the transfer didn’t become official until July 1.

To mark his arrival, Ekitike, who has penned a five-year contract, sent a video message to the Bundesliga club’s supporters saying: “Hi Eintracht fans, it’s Heki here, I hope your vacation is goes well. For myself, everything is good.

“Not gonna lie, I miss football so much and I miss you all a lot. So I’m gonna wish you great holidays and nice times, and can’t wait to see you all in the stadium next season. Cheers.”

Ekitike twice turned down a move to Newcastle in January and the summer of 2022. The Magpies agreed a reported £26m fee with Stade de Reims but talks with the player’s representatives proved frustrating as they held out for a move to PSG.

Speaking about Ekitike’s snub, Newcastle boss Eddie Howe said: “It’s no secret that we really liked Hugo and we worked hard to try and do that deal. He’s a very talented lad and he decided to go to PSG.

“I have no hard feelings toward him and wish him well in the next phase of his career. I really do wish him luck. But it is an example of the types of clubs we’re competing with to try and improve our squad.

“It’s not as easy as people think it is and you’re going to miss out on targets and look at other options. I’ve done that before in my career and I’m sure it won’t be the last.”

However, the player’s dream move to the French champions turned into a nightmare. After making 33 appearances in his debut campaign, Ekitike made one outing at the beginning of last season before being frozen out.

There was reportedly interest from the likes of West Ham United and Crystal Palace last summer but Frankfurt got their man at the second attempt six months later.

Ekitike’s snub, while it wound Newcastle fans up at the time, was likely a blessing in disguise. United went on to smash their club record transfer fee for Alexander Isak, who has netted an impressive 35 goals in 67 outings, since joining for £63m from Real Sociedad.