Newcastle United Hugo Ekitike transfer stance ’emerges’ amid £86 million release clause
Newcastle United Reignite Interest in Hugo Ekitike After Previous Transfer Near-Misses
Newcastle United are once again eyeing a move for French striker Hugo Ekitike, as the club looks to strengthen its attacking options ahead of the new season. The Magpies have a long-standing interest in the 22-year-old forward and could finally look to bring him to St. James’ Park this summer after two previous attempts fell short.
Ekitike first emerged on Newcastle’s radar during the January transfer window in 2022, when the club launched a determined effort to secure his signature from Stade de Reims. Talks progressed rapidly, and Newcastle believed they had reached an agreement with the Ligue 1 side on deadline day. However, the player himself opted against making the switch to Tyneside, choosing instead to wait for other opportunities.
Later that summer, the Magpies revived their interest and again tried to lure the talented young striker to the Premier League. Despite their renewed efforts, Ekitike ultimately decided to accept an offer from French giants Paris Saint-Germain, who initially brought him in on a loan deal for the 2022/23 campaign. That move became permanent the following summer, but Ekitike found it difficult to establish himself in PSG’s star-studded squad and struggled for consistent game time and form.
In a bid to revive his career, the French Under-21 international made a switch to Bundesliga side Eintracht Frankfurt last summer. His performances in Germany have sparked fresh interest from a host of top clubs across Europe and beyond, with Arsenal, Saudi sides Al-Hilal and Al Qadsiah, and now Liverpool reportedly among those monitoring his progress.
According to Chronicle Live, Liverpool are currently viewed as the leading contenders to land Ekitike. However, The Telegraph has revealed that Newcastle have “rekindled” their pursuit of the forward, especially after missing out on Joao Pedro, who completed a surprise move to Chelsea from Brighton earlier in the window.
Newcastle remain keen on bolstering their attacking department, particularly with Champions League qualifiers and a demanding domestic campaign on the horizon. Manager Eddie Howe is understood to be eager to ease the burden on star striker Alexander Isak by bringing in another centre-forward who can provide depth, competition, and cover in key fixtures.
The club has reportedly made their intentions known to Ekitike’s representatives, signaling their desire to explore a potential deal. However, any move for the French striker is expected to come with a significant price tag. Ekitike’s current contract includes a reported release clause of around €100 million (£86 million), meaning Newcastle may have to table a substantial offer if they hope to persuade Eintracht Frankfurt to sell.
Importantly, Newcastle’s interest in Ekitike is not related to any potential sale of Alexander Isak. Despite growing speculation and reported interest from other top European clubs, Newcastle remain firm in their stance that Isak is not for sale. The Swedish forward has become a central figure in Howe’s system and is seen as a vital part of the club’s long-term plans.
Sources close to the club have suggested that Isak is happy on Tyneside, and discussions over a new and improved long-term contract are ongoing. The 24-year-old still has a deal that runs until 2028, and the Magpies are optimistic that he will reaffirm his commitment to the club amid ongoing transfer rumors.
With the transfer window in full swing and the new season approaching rapidly, all eyes will be on Newcastle’s next move in their pursuit of Hugo Ekitike — a player they’ve admired for years and could finally bring to the Premier League at the third time of asking.