Newcastle United are making waves this summer transfer window with their ambitious pursuit of Eintracht Frankfurt’s star striker Hugo Ekitike. The 23-year-old French forward has captured the Magpies’ attention, with the club preparing a record-breaking offer that could redefine their attacking options and potentially reshape their squad dynamics.
On July 15, 2025, Newcastle submitted a formal bid of around £70 million (€80 million) for Ekitike, marking their highest-ever transfer offer. However, Eintracht Frankfurt swiftly rejected the proposal, valuing their prized asset closer to £85 million and signaling that other European clubs are prepared to pay more. The German side’s firm stance is backed by their strong financial position, having previously secured significant sums from high-profile sales such as Randal Kolo Muani’s €95 million transfer to Paris Saint-Germain and Omar Marmoush’s €75 million move to Manchester City.
The negotiations between Newcastle and Frankfurt remain active, with talks ongoing to find common ground that could bring Ekitike to St. James’ Park. Sources close to the club have indicated that Newcastle is exploring whether there is any flexibility on the asking price, hoping to strike a deal closer to £63 million (€75 million) with added incentives. Despite the current impasse, the Magpies’ determination to secure the forward is clear, reflecting their intent to bolster their squad ahead of a Champions League campaign.
Newcastle’s interest in Ekitike is not new. The club initially attempted to sign the Frenchman in January 2022, but the transfer broke down on deadline day as Ekitike opted to join Paris Saint-Germain on loan instead. After a successful loan spell, Frankfurt secured his permanent transfer for €17.5 million last summer. Since then, Ekitike has flourished, netting 22 goals and providing 12 assists during the 2024-25 season, helping Frankfurt achieve a historic third-place finish in the Bundesliga and qualify for the Champions League for only the second time in their history.
Despite the high-profile interest from other Premier League clubs such as Manchester United, Chelsea, and Liverpool, Newcastle remain confident that they can lure Ekitike to Tyneside. The Magpies held talks with the player’s representatives in Austria on July 14, 2025, underlining the seriousness of their pursuit. While Liverpool had considered Ekitike as a backup option if they failed to secure Alexander Isak, Newcastle’s strategy is to have both forwards play alongside each other, alongside new signing Anthony Elanga, forming a formidable attacking trio.
Alexander Isak, Newcastle’s current club-record signing at £63 million, remains a key figure in the team, and club insiders have confirmed that Ekitike is not intended as a replacement but rather as a complementary addition. Fans and pundits alike speculate on how Eddie Howe, Newcastle’s head coach, will manage the squad dynamics with such a wealth of attacking talent. The combination of Ekitike, Isak, Elanga, and other forwards like Anthony Gordon and Harvey Barnes presents a tantalizing challenge but also raises questions about squad rotation and financial sustainability.
Supporters have voiced mixed opinions on the potential signing. Some see it as a bold statement of intent, signaling Newcastle’s ambition to compete at the highest level in Europe. Steve, a fan, remarked, “A bold move and shows the ambition the Toon have in sitting at the top table in Europe. Isak will stay, but I expect some exits elsewhere to balance the books.” Others, like Harry, question the value of spending over £70 million on Ekitike if Isak remains, suggesting that the club could find quality strikers for less. Jeff weighed in with a more cautious view, stating, “Don’t think he’s worth that. Probably £45m. Don’t think he’s needed.” Meanwhile, Craig expressed optimism about the attacking possibilities, envisioning a 4-4-2 formation with Ekitike and Isak leading the line, creating an “electric” forward line for the upcoming season.
Financially, Newcastle’s transfer budget is tight. The club has already spent over £55 million on Anthony Elanga this summer, and Sky Sports News’ Keith Downie highlighted that the highest they might go for Ekitike is around £70-75 million. With personal terms still to be agreed and the deal having collapsed twice before in 2022, the transfer remains a complex and delicate negotiation.
Eintracht Frankfurt’s negotiating approach is well-known for being tough but fair, as seen in their recent transfer dealings. Their refusal to accept Newcastle’s initial bid stems not only from the valuation gap but also from concerns over payment terms. The club's financial health means they are not under pressure to sell, allowing them to hold out for a fee in the €90-100 million range if Ekitike moves this summer.
Ekitike’s journey to this point has been marked by steady development and ambition. Former Reims coach Oscar Garcia once challenged the young forward to reach the level of Kylian Mbappe and other top strikers, a target Ekitike quickly surpassed in his own mind. His talent and drive have made him a sought-after player across Europe, and his performances in the Bundesliga have solidified his reputation as a forward with elite potential.
As the transfer window progresses, Newcastle’s pursuit of Hugo Ekitike remains a captivating storyline. The club’s ambition to strengthen their squad for the rigors of the Premier League and Champions League is evident, and securing Ekitike would be a marquee signing that elevates their attacking options significantly. Yet, the deal’s completion hinges on bridging the valuation gap and navigating the financial constraints that come with assembling a competitive and balanced squad.
For now, the Magpies and their fans wait eagerly, knowing that the next few weeks could reshape the club’s future and potentially herald a new era of success on both domestic and European fronts.
