Transfer Bullshit: Unfortunately Newcastle has failed in their pursuit for French Striker Ekitike and amid that saw an alternative
After failing in their bid to land long-time target Hugo Ekitike, Newcastle United are wasting no time in identifying viable alternatives to bolster their attacking options this summer. And in a surprising twist, they may now be on the verge of signing a forward some believe to be a better fit for Eddie Howe’s high-energy system: Paris Saint-Germain’s Randal Kolo Muani.
Ekitike Chase Ends in Disappointment
The Magpies had earmarked Hugo Ekitike as a key summer signing to reinforce their frontline. The French striker, currently on the books at Eintracht Frankfurt, had long been admired by the Tyneside club for his blend of youth, flair, and creativity. However, their pursuit was abruptly derailed when Liverpool swooped in and outbid them, reportedly agreeing on a fixed deal worth up to £69 million.
This came shortly after the Reds tested Newcastle’s resolve with a massive £120 million approach for Alexander Isak – a bid the club firmly rejected. With Ekitike off the table and Isak still central to their plans, Newcastle have quickly shifted focus to other potential options.
Newcastle Pivot Toward Proven, Powerful Alternatives
Brentford’s Yoane Wissa was one of the first names linked as an alternative. The Magpies submitted an initial £25 million offer for the Congolese international, which was promptly turned down. Sky Sports’ Keith Downie reports that Newcastle are preparing an improved bid in the region of £30 million plus performance-related add-ons.
Yet, it’s another Frenchman who now appears to have emerged as the leading candidate to fill the Ekitike-shaped void—Randal Kolo Muani.
Kolo Muani: From Juventus Loan to Newcastle Radar
Currently contracted to PSG, Kolo Muani spent last season on loan at Juventus, where he impressed with his pace, power, and goalscoring instincts. While Juventus are keen to make the move permanent, they have yet to meet PSG’s €50 million (£44 million) asking price, creating an opportunity for other suitors to enter the fray.
According to journalist Duncan Castles, speaking on the Football Transfers Podcast, Newcastle are currently “the most likely destination” for the 25-year-old forward. The Magpies are believed to be actively engaged in talks and are prepared to match PSG’s valuation, which remains more affordable than the fee Liverpool paid for Ekitike.
Muani vs. Ekitike: A Tactical Comparison
At first glance, Kolo Muani and Hugo Ekitike might seem like interchangeable pieces—both young, French, and previously competing for game time at PSG under Christophe Galtier. But a deeper look reveals key differences in their playing styles that could actually make Muani the superior fit for Newcastle.
Kolo Muani is a direct, explosive attacker. His strength lies in his off-the-ball movement, his ability to exploit space behind defensive lines, and his clinical finishing. He scored 14 goals from an expected goals (xG) of 11.2, reflecting an efficient end product. His 44.6% shot-on-target rate further highlights his goal-focused mindset—significantly higher than Ekitike’s 39.7%.
In contrast, Ekitike operates more like a second striker or deep-lying forward. He thrives on linking play, orchestrating attacks, and creating space for others. His 22-goal tally came from an xG of 24.6, and he posted stronger stats in areas like progressive passing distance (43.2 metres per 90), shot-creating actions (3.49), and attacking third touches (20.6) compared to Muani’s respective numbers of 27.5, 2.31, and 16.0.
In essence, while Ekitike offers flair and fluidity, Kolo Muani provides verticality, pace, and a more direct threat in front of goal.
Why Kolo Muani Makes Sense for Eddie Howe
Under Eddie Howe, Newcastle have developed a reputation for high-intensity, transition-focused football. The team’s ability to spring forward at speed, leveraging wide outlets like Anthony Gordon and Jacob Murphy, means that central attackers need to be instinctive, quick, and deadly in front of goal.
Kolo Muani fits that mold perfectly. His game is built around making darting runs into channels, occupying defenders, and capitalizing on space in and around the box. Rather than replacing Isak like-for-like, he could complement the Swede or provide a sharp rotational option in domestic and European competitions.
Duncan Castles also hinted at a deeper implication, suggesting Muani’s profile is “very similar” to Isak’s, raising questions about whether Newcastle are preparing for the future—or simply looking to lighten the load on their star striker.
A Signing of Purpose, Not Panic
Despite losing out on Ekitike, Newcastle’s pursuit of Kolo Muani feels calculated rather than reactive. At £44 million, he represents a more financially reasonable investment, especially considering his adaptability and proven success in both Ligue 1 and Serie A. Tactical analyst Zach Lowry recently described his Juventus stint as “absolutely incredible,” noting his rapid adjustment to a new league and playing style.
For Newcastle, Muani isn’t just a fallback option. He’s potentially a better fit—a signing who aligns more closely with the club’s immediate ambitions and Eddie Howe’s footballing blueprint.
While the disappointment over Ekitike lingers, the pursuit of Kolo Muani could turn out to be a blessing in disguise. In him, Newcastle may find a forward who is not only more affordable but also more effective in the specific context of their evolving squad.
And if a deal can be struck soon, he might just be the difference-maker they need to push even higher in the Premier League this season.