Summary: Newcastle Step Up Talks for Hugo Ekitike Amid Club-Record Deal Pursuit

Newcastle United are advancing in negotiations for a potential club-record transfer for Eintracht Frankfurt striker Hugo Ekitike, according to the latest reports. The Tyneside club is determined to bolster their attacking options and sees the 23-year-old French forward as a key target for the summer transfer window.

Ekitike, who enjoyed a standout season in the Bundesliga with 22 goals and 12 assists across all competitions, has attracted significant attention from several Premier League clubs, including Liverpool and Manchester United. However, Newcastle are currently in pole position, with talks reportedly moving quickly. The Magpies have reportedly prepared an offer in the region of €80 million (£68 million), which would eclipse the previous club record set by Alexander Isak’s arrival in 2022.

Newcastle’s interest in Ekitike is not new; they tried to sign him in 2022, but he opted to join Paris Saint-Germain. Since then, his career has continued to rise, making him one of the most sought-after strikers in Europe. The club’s management, led by Eddie Howe, is eager to pair Ekitike with Isak in attack, aiming to form a dynamic duo ahead of their return to the UEFA Champions League[1][2][3].

Despite speculation that Isak could be targeted by rival clubs if Ekitike joins, sources indicate that Howe plans to use both forwards together to maximize Newcastle’s attacking threat. With the deal progressing rapidly and personal terms reportedly agreed, Ekitike’s arrival could be finalized in the coming days, marking a significant statement of intent from Newcastle United.

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