Exciting News from The Athletic

Newcastle United is in talks to sign Eintracht Frankfurt forward Hugo Ekitike in a deal valued at around €75 million. The potential transfer would surpass Newcastle's previous record signing of €71.2 million for Alexander Isak from Real Sociedad in summer 2022.

Ekitike's proposed transfer to Newcastle in January 2022 fell through on deadline day, but the club has maintained interest in the 23-year-old player. He had a successful season with Frankfurt in 2024-25, scoring 22 goals and providing 12 assists after joining the Bundesliga club permanently for €17.5 million in the summer of 2024.

Formerly with Ligue 1 side Reims, Ekitike initially hesitated about moving to St. James' Park three-and-a-half years ago despite an agreement between the clubs. He later joined PSG on loan in 2022 before signing permanently with Frankfurt. His current contract with Frankfurt runs until 2029.

If Ekitike leaves Frankfurt, it would mark the third high-value departure for the club's attackers in recent years. Ekitike tied with Omar Marmoush in Bundesliga goalscoring for the 2024-25 season, helping Frankfurt secure a third-place finish and Champions League qualification for the second time in their history.

Despite interest from Manchester United and previous interest from Chelsea, Newcastle is actively pursuing Ekitike. The potential signing reflects Newcastle's ambitions and would significantly strengthen their attacking options.

Newcastle's pursuit of Ekitike signals a positive shift in their transfer window momentum. While a deal is not yet finalized, the club's interest in the French forward demonstrates their commitment to bolstering their squad for the upcoming season.