Newcastle now “keen” to beat Chelsea in hectic race for “strong” £85m star

with Anthony Elanga already on the way, Newcastle United are now reportedly “keen” to beat Chelsea in the race to sign a talented striker who would be an instant upgrade on Callum Wilson.

After confirming Wilson’s decision to leave the club at the end of his contract, Newcastle are still on the hunt for another striker to provide competition for Alexander Isak and William Osula.

The veteran forward confirmed the news of his departure, taking to social media to say: “To all you Magpies, it’s time to say goodbye after an unbelievable few years at the Toon.Thank you for everything. We stood strong together through the highs and some lows to help the club experience new heights. I am so proud to have worn the iconic number 9 shirt and to have added a little more history to it.

Scoring at the Gallowgate end really is as special as they say. All good things come to an end, but there’s no doubt Newcastle United will always have a place in mine and my families hearts.”

As one striker leaves, however, another could be on his way this summer. Those at St James’ Park have instantly turned towards Brentford’s Yoane Wissa, according to reports, and there’s no doubt that he would round off an excellent list of attacking options at Eddie Howe’s disposal.As impressive as Wissa is, though, he’s not the only name on the Magpies’ radar, and they may well turn towards an even better alternative ahead of next season.According to Fabrizio Romano, Newcastle are now “keen” to sign Hugo Ekitike ahead of Chelsea this summer.The talented Frenchman has attracted plenty of interest in recent months, including from Saudi Arabia and Liverpool, but those at St James’ Park will be hoping to make their biggest statement yet by winning the race for his signature.The deal won’t come cheap given that previous reports have claimed that Frankfurt will demand as much as €100m (£85m) to sell their star striker this summer, but Ekitike could prove to be worth that hefty fee.The former Paris Saint-Germain forward was described as “strong” by analyst Ben Mattinson last season as he rounded off a fantastic season with 22 goals in all competitions. And now, it should come as no surprise that a hectic race is forming for his signature.