Breaking News: Newcastle make Alexander Isak to Liverpool decision after huge Hugo Ekitike transfer bid

Newcastle United have intensified their transfer activity with a major push to sign French striker Hugo Ekitike from Eintracht Frankfurt, sending a clear message that their intent is not to replace Alexander Isak—but to partner him. The Magpies are set on strengthening their attacking department, and the capture of Ekitike would underline a bold tactical shift under Eddie Howe’s stewardship.

Ekitike, 23, enjoyed a sensational season in Germany, scoring 22 goals and assisting 12 more in just 48 appearances. His impressive output was instrumental in Frankfurt securing a Champions League spot, placing him firmly on the radar of Europe’s elite, including Liverpool, Chelsea, and Manchester United. However, Newcastle are determined to win the race for his signature and have already entered direct talks with Frankfurt officials.

According to Sky Sports, Newcastle’s recruitment team held initial meetings in Germany and have now ramped up discussions during their pre-season tour in Austria. Frankfurt are in a strong negotiating position, with Ekitike under contract until June 2029 and a reported release clause of €100m (£86m). Despite this, Newcastle are hoping to strike a deal closer to €75m (£65m), which would still make Ekitike the second-most expensive signing in their history.

The potential arrival of Ekitike has sparked speculation that Newcastle could be preparing to offload Alexander Isak—especially with reports suggesting Liverpool are keen on the Swedish striker. However, sources close to the club have confirmed that Eddie Howe has no intention of selling Isak. Instead, the plan is to field both forwards together, an approach that would signal a major tactical evolution for the Magpies.

Last season, Isak led the line with confidence and consistency, netting 23 goals in the Premier League. His ability to operate as a lone striker has been a major asset for Howe, but the addition of Ekitike would allow Newcastle to deploy a more dynamic two-striker system—especially useful during a busy Champions League campaign.

Newcastle’s attacking options on the wings have already been bolstered with the £55m capture of Anthony Elanga from Nottingham Forest. With Harvey Barnes, Anthony Gordon, and Jacob Murphy all capable of playing wide, the focus now shifts to enhancing the team’s central attacking threat—and that’s where Ekitike comes in.

Financially, there are concerns about how the deal fits within the Premier League’s profit and sustainability regulations. The Athletic has reported that signing Ekitike without selling a key asset like Isak would stretch the club’s budget significantly. Nonetheless, Newcastle’s top brass remain adamant about retaining both players, believing their combined presence could elevate the squad to new heights.

Ekitike is not a new name on Newcastle’s transfer radar. The club came close to signing him in January 2022 in a £20m deal that collapsed on deadline day. They’ve monitored his development closely ever since. His move to Frankfurt for €17.5m last summer now looks like a bargain, with the striker’s value skyrocketing after just one season.

Frankfurt have developed a reputation as savvy sellers in recent transfer windows. Randal Kolo Muani was sold to Paris Saint-Germain for €95m in 2023, while Omar Marmoush joined Manchester City for €75m just this January. The German side are open to doing business for the right price, especially if the player expresses a desire to move on.

Frankfurt’s sporting director Markus Krosche acknowledged Ekitike’s rising profile in a recent interview with Sport1, saying: “He’s one of the most interesting strikers on the European market. Hugo has to decide that. I’m glad we have him. If he decides otherwise, that’s our motto: If a player develops faster than us, we let him go.”

From Newcastle’s perspective, Ekitike fits the long-term vision of building a youthful, energetic, and technically gifted squad capable of competing domestically and in Europe. He is not only a prolific scorer but also a creative force capable of linking up play—a trait that would complement Isak’s pace and movement.

Should the deal materialize, Eddie Howe would have one of the most versatile forward lines in the Premier League. The tactical implications are significant; playing two strikers could push Newcastle away from their usual 4-3-3 setup and toward a 4-4-2 diamond or a flexible 3-5-2, particularly in European fixtures.

There’s also a psychological edge in keeping Isak amid Liverpool’s interest. By resisting the temptation to cash in on a top talent and instead building around him, Newcastle are signaling their ambition to become mainstays at the top of English and European football.

Of course, nothing is finalized yet. Transfer talks are notoriously fluid, and much depends on Ekitike’s own decision and Frankfurt’s willingness to compromise on the price. But the intent from Newcastle is clear: they want to elevate the squad, not dismantle it.

With the clock ticking on the summer transfer window, fans at St. James’ Park will be eagerly awaiting updates. If Newcastle manage to pull off this double-pronged attacking coup, it could redefine the club’s season—and its future trajectory.