Newcastle United reportedly makes a move for Hugo Ekitike, a player Liverpool has been interested in since June.
Alexander Isak’s future at Newcastle remains in doubt. After reports came about Darwin Nunez’s potential departure this summer, the Reds identified Isak as one of the main targets for that position.
Although the price could go up to £130m as reported, Newcastle reportedly don’t want to let Isak go, although the player side wants to leave this summer. Isak has been a key player in the Magpies’ squad.
The Swedish striker scored 23 goals last season in the Premier League, just behind PL Golden Boot winner Mohamed Salah with 29 goals. The 25-year-old also scored 20+ goals for them in the 23/24 season.
Newcastle finished 5th in the English Premier League last season, earning a spot to play in the UEFA Champions League in 25/26. They’ve started their summer rebuild accordingly for that.
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Why Newcastle wants another striker
According to reports by The Telegraph’s Luke Edwards, Newcastle United are very close to landing the French forward Hugo Ekitike.
The Frankfurt forward was on Arne Slot’s list since June, but his transfer fee might be the reason why the Reds didn’t show up strongly. The German side reportedly wanted around €100m for the striker.
Isak might be the favourite for Slot, and this could be the reason Newcastle are now trying to land another striker at St James’ Park. Although nothing is official yet from either side.
Liverpool might be willing to take time on the Isak deal, as the club now wants to focus on bringing in a defender. With Jarell Quansah sold to Bayer Leverkusen and Ibrahima Konate reportedly rejecting a new contract, the Reds might have identified a new player needed in the backline. Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi is the favourite for the club, as per various sources.
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