Isak remains the Magpie’s undisputed No 9 and top scorer but the exit of Callum Wilson this summer has left a gap in the squad
Newcastle United are interested in French striker Hugo Ekitike as they continue their search for a forward to ease the burden on Alexander Isak.
The Magpies shifted focus to Ekitike following the collapse of their pursuit of Joao Pedro, who has now joined Chelsea.
Ekitike has impressed for Eintracht Frankfurt in the Bundesliga, and for France’s U-21 team. Newcastle previously tried to sign the forward in both the January and summer windows of 2022, only to be beaten by Paris Saint-Germain.
The player’s time in Paris was underwhelming but his move to Frankfurt last year has reignited his development. The 23-year-old registered 15 goals and eight assists in 33 Bundesliga appearances last season, catching the eye of several Premier League sides. Liverpool, Manchester United and Chelsea have all shown interest, although the Blues have now found solutions to their striker problem elsewhere in Liam Delap and Joao Pedro.
Frankfurt are not expected to negotiate below Ekitike’s €100m release clause. Newcastle are weighing up whether they are prepared to commit that amount to a striker this window, having already paid £55m to Nottingham Forest for Anthony Elanga.
But given the club’s desire to stay competitive both in the Premier League and in Europe, Eddie Howe is keen to bolster his forward options. Isak remains the club’s undisputed No 9 and top scorer but the exit of Callum Wilson this summer has left a gap in the squad. William Osula, recently promoted from the academy, is currently the only recognised backup striker.
Wide options are in healthier supply for the Toons. Anthony Gordon and Harvey Barnes rotate on the left, while the right wing now includes new arrival Anthony Elanga as well as Jacob Murphy. Which means the addition of a striker could as well be priority for Howe.
