Newcastle United plot new striker move after Ekitike u-turn
Newcastle United’s attempt to sign Hugo Ekitike this summer looks to have fallen short as the Magpies opt for third time in three years to walk away from a deal for the French striker.
Despite entering prolonged transfer talks with Eintracht Frankfurt earlier this month, the club decided to pull out after several complications emerged.
The Magpies had hoped to bring in Ekitike after sealing a £55m [$74m] move for Anthony Elanga from Nottingham Forest.
But according to Julien Laurens, their €75m [$87m]offer was not enough for Frankfurt, who are holding out for at least €80m [$92m]
Update! Newcastle out of the race to sign Hugo Ekitike now, they couldn’t go higher than their first offer. Liverpool and Manchester United are now both in for the French striker. Frankfurt still want €80m+ for him. No agreement yet with either Liverpool or United but close. pic.twitter.com/t2RoqXnIBh
— Julien Laurens (@LaurensJulien) July 17, 2025
As per TBR football, the club claim they didn't make a formal bid and they would not do so without a verbal agreement from the 23-year-old.
The situation has now dissolved and Eddie Howe is now looking elsewhere for a new attacker.
While this is happening, Liverpool and Manchester United have joined the race for Ekitike, who scored 22 goals last season.
Newcastle could line up Bundesliga star as next striker target
With Ekitike no longer in the picture, Newcastle could now switch focus to RB Leipzig hitman Benjamin Sesko, who had previously been close to joining Arsenal before Mikel Arteta side turned their attention to Sporting CP's Viktor Gyokeres.
Howe is a fan of the Slovenian and has reportedly asked his scouting department to monitor his progress in the Bundesliga closely.
The 21-year-old is weighing up his options after being passed over by Arsenal, and although he is open to staying in Germany, he has not ruled out a move to England if the opportunity presents itself.
The player is expected to consider a move to either Newcastle or Chelsea who will both be playing in next season's UEFA Champions League.
Earlier this month, Leipzig told Arsenal they would only let Sesko leave for a fee of around €90m [$104m], and while that price remains high, Newcastle could be prepared to negotiate now their original target is off the table.