Newcastle United are reportedly making a significant push to acquire Eintracht Frankfurt`s highly-rated French striker, Hugo Ekitike. Sources close to the negotiations indicate that discussions between the Premier League club and the Bundesliga side are actively underway, centering around a potential deal valued at a substantial €75 million.
This isn`t the first time the Tyneside club has pursued the young forward. Newcastle previously attempted to sign Ekitike back in January 2022 when he was breaking through at Stade de Reims. That earlier move ultimately broke down, with the player reportedly preferring to remain in France at the time. A curious decision perhaps, which has led him on a somewhat circuitous route back to Newcastle`s transfer radar.
Ekitike, currently 23 years old, began his professional journey at Reims, achieving a notable breakout season in 2021–22 after a brief loan spell in Denmark. His form—scoring 11 goals in 26 appearances—initially attracted Newcastle`s attention. Following the failed transfer to England, he made a high-profile move to Paris Saint-Germain in July 2022 on an initial loan with an option to buy.
His time in the French capital proved to be a challenging period, marked by limited opportunities and inconsistent form. However, a switch to Eintracht Frankfurt in February 2024, which became permanent in the summer, appears to have revitalized his career. Ekitike enjoyed a stellar 2024–25 campaign in Germany, excelling in both the Bundesliga and the UEFA Europa League. His impressive statistics—22 goals and 12 assists across 48 matches—have evidently reignited interest from top European clubs, including his long-term admirers at St James` Park.
The reported €75 million valuation underscores the significant impact Ekitike had at Frankfurt and represents a considerable investment for Newcastle United as they look to strengthen their attacking options. While Newcastle appears to be the frontrunner in the current negotiations, it`s worth noting that other prominent English clubs, such as Manchester United and Chelsea, have also been credited with previous interest in the French U21 international. His talent is clearly recognized across the continent.
Whether this renewed, and significantly more expensive, pursuit of Hugo Ekitike will be successful remains to be seen. The saga of the young striker and Newcastle United continues, highlighting both the unpredictable nature of football transfers and the premium now placed on proven goalscorers with high potential following a period of strong performance.
