The negotiating team is working on the structure of a possible deal
Alexander Isak and Hugo Ekitike look set to be involved in a transfer standoff between Liverpool and Newcastle
Alexander Isak and Hugo Ekitike look set to be involved in a transfer standoff between Liverpool and Newcastle
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Newcastle United have opened talks with German club Eintracht Frankfurt over highly rated striker Hugo Ekitike, as the club look to add major firepower after their acquisition of Anthony Elanga - but some fans in the Chronicle Live comments section are concerned that this transfer would open the door for Alexander Isak's many suitors.
Ekitike has just enjoyed a 22-goal season in the Bundesliga for Frankfurt, and the 23-year-old is on the radar for top clubs this summer, including Premier League title winners Liverpool. The Magpies have been in for the young Frenchman before back in 2023, but he chose to go to PSG, where he was ultimately sold on after failing to make an impact at the French heavyweights.
The striker has a release clause set at £86m, and while Newcastle officials are working on reducing the price or structuring the deal in their favour, there is the possibility of using the transfer budget set aside for future seasons to complete the move. If it can be done, Newcastle would have both a superstar in Isak and a highly sought-after young Ekitike vying for position - or perhaps, working together up front.
However, the bombshell news that Liverpool have made an approach of sorts about signing Isak was predicted by many who feared a move for Ekitike would mean a departure for one of their top players.
Reader Toondog9 says: "Isak’s people are likely to insert a buyout clause in any new contract he signs. Getting Ekitike helps soften the blow if Isak does leave in the future."
Commenter Gsklb04 writes: "Let’s hope we’re not buying him, then selling our other striker." Tjgreen99 says: "Makes sense to sign another top quality striker to bolster the attack, and to also fill the gap if Isak leaves at some point."
DickyDiDoe adds: "I agree that Ekitike is a superb centre-forward. I would love to see him play as a twin striker with Isak, but if purchased, I hope that doesn't mean Isak is sold to accommodate him."
Others aren't convinced the transfer would be in Newcastle's best interest. Bagehot99 writes: "Obviously, I trust Eddie 100%. But I wasn't sure about Ekitike and I'm still not."
Dodsy says: "No, we don’t want Hugo Ekitike, we tried to sign him before and knocked us back, it shows he doesn’t want to play for the Toon. Eddie give him a wide berth please."
Still other fans are all for it. Vestanpanz writes: "Eddie knows what he's doing. Longstaff, Willock and Targett sales would free up wages, and pay towards the Ekitike fee."
Tooner says: "Ekitike is a much sought-after player, even Liverpool are after him. Let’s tie him down, then get the CB and GK, then our transfer window will be exceptional."
Whistler2 writes: "He's a good finisher and creator, skilful, and a right handful for defenders."
Davros92001 adds: "I don’t think we would spend £86m on him, but maybe about £50 + add ons would be good business. If this happens I can see someone leaving, possibly Gordon, bearing in mind Barnes plays the same position, but would be a statement signing."
Have your say! Is a statement signing for Hugo Ekitike what Newcastle United need this summer? Comment below, and join in on the conversation.