NEWCASTLE UNITED could launch a club-record £86million swoop for Hugo Ekitike after reigniting their interest in the French forward.
The Magpies are stepping up the hunt for a new striker after finally landing right-winger Anthony Elanga – a position that was their top priority to strengthen.
Hugo Ekitike is a transfer target for Newcastle[/caption]
Eddie Howe is a huge admirer of the Eintracht Frankfurt ace[/caption]
Now they want back-up for top scorer Alexander Isak.
Boss Eddie Howe knows the Swedish star needs help given the addition of Champions League football to go with their Premier League schedule, plus both the League and FA Cup.
Callum Wilson’s exit means that Danish U21 international Will Osula is the only other recognised senior striker.
Howe thought he had managed to bring in Joao Pedro until Chelsea swooped to sign him.
Now they are weighing up a move for French forward Ekitike, 23, from Eintracht Frankfurt that would almost certainly make him their record signing.
They are willing to battle the likes of Liverpool, Chelsea and Manchester United for his signature – though he won’t come cheaply.
Ekitike’s contract at Frankfurt has an £86m release clause and it will take something very close to that figure to land him.
Howe has been an admirer of him for several years and missed out on him in 2022.
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Back then, Ekitike opted for Paris Saint-Germain instead, leading to the Magpies making their move for £68m Isak.
Now Toon have.
They have now informed his representatives that they are keen again and outlined their desire to bring him to St. James’ Park.
And they are also exploring the possibility of thrashing out a fee with Frankfurt as they eye a bumper addition to their forward line.
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