Newcastle United had an excellent 2024/25 season, breaking a 56-year trophy drought and finishing in the top five, securing Champions League football. As they prepare for a busier season (and potential departures) they have set out ambitiously in the summer transfer window. After already completing the signing of Anthony Elanga, Newcastle have now submitted a bid for Hugo Ekitike.
Newcastle United Submit Bid for Hugo Ekitike Amidst Liverpool and Manchester United Interest
Newcastle Outbid Competing Club
Fabrizio Romano has revealed that Newcastle have “submitted an official bid” to Eintracht Frankfurt for their target Ekitike. He understands that their proposal was higher than a £60 million bid made by another club earlier this summer, as the Magpies are “pushing to get the deal done”; negotiations are underway.
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Whilst it is unclear which club made said bid, Florian Plettenburg reveals that both Liverpool and Manchester United are in the race. He reports that the Geordies are “ready to pay the package demanded”. David Ornstein, of The Athletic, explains that a deal would be around £65 million, though at the moment it is not close to being done.
What Does This Transfer Mean for Newcastle United Moving Forward?
Newcastle’s interest in Ekitike appears to be heavy as they look determined to complete this transfer. This may be due to the increase in games that they will play next season, as they qualified for the Champions League, which now has eight games in its league phase. On top of this, they aim to continue to compete at the top level, battling for another UCL spot and another trophy.
However, this transfer may not just be a move for greater depth. Although there have been no reliable reports around the matter, the signing of Ekitike could suggest a nearing departure for Alexander Isak. Fans may be worried about this happening in the ongoing transfer window, though the lack of advances from suitors so far doesn’t suggest this.
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The signing of Ekitike could be a smart plan to prepare for the Swede’s departure if it were to happen next summer. The 23-year-old would benefit from a year as an understudy to familiarise himself with Eddie Howe’s tactics and the physical nature of the Premier League. Either way, this potential signing and the determination with which Newcastle have gone about it does not bode well for Isak’s future in the North-East.