Newcastle United have reignited their long-standing interest in Eintracht Frankfurt striker Hugo Ekitike, with reports confirming that the club’s recruitment team has made direct contact with the player’s agent. The 23-year-old French striker has once again emerged as a key target for the Magpies, marking the latest chapter in a transfer saga that has persisted for several years.
The biggest development in Newcastle’s pursuit of Ekitike has been their direct approach to the player’s representatives. A report from the Telegraph stated Newcastle are ready to move for Ekitike, and that Howe’s recruitment team has contacted his agent with their intent of making him a Newcastle player. This direct communication is a crucial step in the transfer process, demonstrating Newcastle’s serious intent to secure the striker’s services.
What Newcastle United have reached out and told Hugo Ekitike’s agent amid a £86m release clause suggests that negotiations have progressed beyond preliminary interest, with the club making their intentions clear to the player’s camp. This proactive approach indicates that Newcastle view Ekitike as a priority target for their summer transfer window.
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Historical Context and Previous Rejection
Newcastle’s interest in Ekitike is not new, and the history between the clubs adds complexity to the current situation. Ekitike rejected Newcastle in 2022 and instead joined Paris Saint-Germain from Reims. This previous rejection provides important context for understanding the current transfer dynamics and Newcastle’s determination to finally secure his signature.
Ekitike was close to joining Newcastle during his time at Stade Reims, but the Magpies were unable to finalise a deal at that time. The fact that Newcastle are returning to pursue the same player shows their continued belief in his abilities and potential fit within their system.
Strategic Replacement Planning
Newcastle’s renewed interest in Ekitike appears to be part of strategic planning for potential departures. Newcastle United will rekindle their interest in Eintracht Frankfurt forward Hugo Ekitike if Alexander Isak leaves the club this summer, Transferswatch understands. This contingency planning suggests that Ekitike is viewed as a suitable replacement for their star striker.
However, recent reports indicate that Newcastle’s interest may extend beyond contingency planning. Hugo Ekitike is a player of interest for Newcastle United, with the Frenchman seen as the ideal replacement for Isak in the scenario of his departure from St James Park. This positioning highlights the club’s recognition of Ekitike’s quality and potential contribution to their attacking setup.
Impressive Performance Statistics
Ekitike’s recent form at Eintracht Frankfurt has justified the big interest from multiple clubs. Since his transfer to Eintracht Frankfurt was finalized for €16.5m in July, he has netted 17 goals and contributed six assists in 32 matches across all competitions. These statistics shows his consistent productivity and ability to contribute both as a goalscorer and creator.
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The striker’s development since his move to the Bundesliga has been remarkable. Ekitike has stepped up for Eintracht Frankfurt in a big way, specifically since the departure of former striker partner Omar, showing his ability to shoulder additional responsibility and deliver when required.
Financial Considerations and Release Clause
The financial aspect of any potential transfer remains a big consideration. Reports suggest that Newcastle United have reached out and told Hugo Ekitike’s agent amid a £86m release clause, indicating the substantial investment required to secure his services. This valuation shows both his impressive performances and Frankfurt’s desire to retain their star asset.
His existing contract with Eintracht Frankfurt is valid until 2029, with an estimated transfer value of €41.2m. The discrepancy between the reported release clause and estimated value suggests that negotiations could be complex, with multiple factors influencing the final transfer fee.
Competition from Premier League Rivals
Newcastle face big competition for Ekitike’s signature from other Premier League clubs. Hugo Ekitike has been linked with a multitude of clubs during this summer’s transfer window, and the latest is Newcastle United. Reports are that Newcastle is “keen” on securing his services, but they are not alone in their pursuit.
Arsenal are prioritising a move for Isak, while his reported €150 million price tag could still prove a problem for the Gunners. At the same time, Liverpool are also interested in the French striker, creating a competitive environment for his signature.
Current Transfer Window Dynamics
The timing of Newcastle’s renewed approach is important within the context of the current transfer window. It was confirmed on Friday 11th July that Newcastle United have signed Elanga. The 23-year-old has put pen to paper on a five-year deal at St James’ Park, becoming one of Newcastle’s most expensive players ever at £55million. But the Magpies’ summer spending is not going to end there.
This recent activity shows Newcastle’s ambition and financial capability in the transfer market, providing context for their ability to pursue high-value targets like Ekitike.
Fan Perspective and Alternatives
The potential signing has generated mixed reactions among Newcastle supporters. On social media, fans said they would rather bring Yoane Wissa to Newcastle than Ekitike, suggesting that some supporters have reservations about the transfer or prefer alternative targets.
The combination of direct agent contact, historical interest, and the club’s demonstrated financial capability shows that this transfer story will continue to develop. For Newcastle, successfully signing Ekitike would represent both a big statement of intent.
